NAC: The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects

The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects, provided by the Nebraska Arts Council, aims to enhance access to arts programs and facilities for individuals with disabilities. Nonprofit arts organizations in Nebraska can apply for this non-matching grant to improve their existing services beyond ADA requirements. Priority is given to those lacking access due to geographical or economic barriers. A Letter of Intent is required before applying, ensuring alignment with accessibility goals.

NOTE:  A Letter of Intent (LOI) is required and, if the proposal is determined to be eligible, an invitation to apply will be made. LOIs must include the description of the proposed project and how it will address your organization’s accessibility goals as well as a budget estimate describing the expenses for your project. After review and approval of the LOI, organizations will receive an invitation to apply.  While funds are available, grants are awarded in the order in which the completed applications are received.
In doing so, the Nebraska Arts Council provides grants and services to artists, organizations and communities that:

• Build creative and proactive leadership in the arts
• Forge partnerships that create and expand opportunities for the arts
• Cultivate new resources needed to sustain the arts in Nebraska
• Establish the arts as basic to education and lifelong learning
• Use the arts as a catalyst for understanding among cultures
• Advocate for increased awareness and access to the arts

The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects grant is designed to provide non-matching funds to enhance access, to an arts organization’s existing programs or facility for persons with disabilities, beyond the minimum ADA requirements.  No cash match is required for the grant amount.

Eligibility

Nonprofit arts organizations incorporated in Nebraska that are federally tax-exempt. An organization must devote 51% or more of its programming and budget to arts activities, events, exhibitions and performances to qualify as an arts organization. Note: NAC Basic Support Grantees (BSG) and Annual Series and Events Grantees (ASE) are eligible to apply.Eligible Projects Include:Purchase and staff training of accessibility equipment
Improvements to existing facilities
Professional development for staff on how to improve the accessibility of your organization’s programs Contact NAC staff for additional guidance if your accessibility project is not listed.

Ineligibility

Project consultation fees alone are not eligible for funding; however, they may be added to a project budget.