Grassroots Arts Program Grant

Geographic Scope: Caldwell County, North Carolina (as part of North Carolina's statewide program covering all 100 counties)

Funder: North Carolina Arts Council (administered by Caldwell Arts Council)

Program Description: Since 1977, the Grassroots Arts Program has provided North Carolina citizens access to quality arts experiences. Using a per capita-based formula, GAP provides funding for the arts through partnerships with local arts councils. The Caldwell Arts Council awards subgrants to local arts organizations in Caldwell County.

Grant Period: July 1, 2025 through June 15, 2026

Eligibility:

• Qualified county nonprofit arts organizations
• Must have been in operation for at least one year
• Nonprofit 501(c)(3) status preferred
• Organizations that are nonprofit in nature may also receive funding
• First-time applicants must contact Ellen Ball before submitting

Eligible Organization Types:

• Theaters, symphonies, galleries, art guilds, choral societies, dance companies, folk arts societies, writers groups, arts festivals
• Qualified artists conducting arts-in-education programs
• Other community, civic, and municipal organizations providing quality experiences

Funding Priorities:

1. First Priority: Program or operating support to qualified arts organizations. (Note: SAR-funded organizations must receive prior NCAC approval before applying)
2. Second Priority: Arts learning and arts-in-education programs (artist residencies, after-school/summer camps, arts learning classes). Note: Does NOT fund school internal programs, art supply purchases, or student competitions/publications
3. Third Priority: Community, civic, and municipal organizations with programs conducted by qualified artists

Contact Information:

• Phone: 828-754-2486
• Email: info@caldwellarts.com
• Executive Director: Ellen Ball

Application Process

1. Contact Executive Director: First-time applicants must contact Ellen Ball at 828-754-2486 or via email before submitting
2. Complete Application: Submit the Grassroots Application form
3. Submit by: Friday, November 14, 2025 at 11:59 PM

Required Materials

• Completed application form
• Organization information and documentation
• Program description and timeline
• Budget information for activities taking place July 1, 2025 - June 15, 2026
• Documentation of nonprofit status (501(c)(3) preferred, nonprofit in nature acceptable)

Application Format

• Available as Word document
• Full funding guidelines provided