John Franzén Grant for the Arts

Geographic Scope: Capitol Hill neighborhood, Washington, DC

Program Overview:
The John Franzén Grant for the Arts is a single $25,000 grant awarded each year to support novel visual, performing, and architectural/design arts programs that can cultivate new audiences and enhance community life on Capitol Hill.

Background:
The Foundation established this annual grant to commemorate John Franzén, a long-time board member and devoted supporter of the Capitol Hill community and the arts. John was a leader in the early years of the Hill Center and a founder of the Ruth Ann Overbeck Capitol Hill History Project, which records oral histories from longtime residents. When John passed away, he left a substantial bequest to the Foundation to support this grant.

Focus Areas:

• Visual arts programs
• Performing arts programs
• Architectural/design arts programs
• Programs that cultivate new audiences
• Programs that enhance community life on Capitol Hill

Award Timeline:

• Grant award announcement: Typically by February
• Award presentation: Spring at Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards ceremony

How to Apply for John Franzén Grant

Submission Format:

• Application letter format (not a standard form)
• Maximum length: Four pages

Submission Methods (choose one):

1. Mail a hard copy to:
   • Mark Weinheimer
   • Chair, CHCF Grants Committee
   • 419 East Capitol Street, SE
   • Washington, DC 20003

Deadline: Monday, October 27, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

Application Letter Should Include:

• Description of your arts program or initiative
• How it supports novel visual, performing, and/or architectural/design arts
• How it cultivates new audiences
• How it enhances community life on Capitol Hill
• Keep to four pages maximum

For Questions:

Download Instructions: Download instructions for the application letter are available on the Foundation's website.