SMAC: Arts in the Schools Grants

The SMAC: Arts in the Schools Grants offer public schools up to $4,000 for various art projects, including artist residencies and field trips. This program aims to provide students with enriching artistic experiences and requires community involvement to broaden its impact. Eligible applicants include public schools within the SW MN Arts Council service region, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the arts. Funding relies on legislative appropriations from Minnesota's arts and cultural heritage fund.

Provides public schools with up to $4,000 for projects such as artist residencies, arts field trips, juried student art exhibits, etc.
Program Intent
The Arts in the Schools grant program provides public schools with funding for activities such as artist residencies with a professional artist or organization working in-depth with students, juried student art exhibits, and field trips to art galleries, professional performances, etc. Arts in the Schools grant projects must be open to all students within a grade, subject discipline, or activity, rather than exclusive to a student organization or specific students selected by teachers. Projects may occur during the school year or during the summer.
To broaden the total impact, the general community should be involved in some aspect. Examples: invite the community to an exhibit of students’ residency work, host a Meet the Artist night, or sponsor a community education class. Detail the community component of your project.
Grant Award Amounts
Arts in the Schools grants are available for up to $4,000.
The Arts in the Schools grant program is dependent on funding from the voters of Minnesota, thanks to MN State legislative appropriations from the arts and cultural heritage fund and the State’s general fund.