Grants for Artists

Independent Maryland artists 18 or older engaged in a sustained artistic practice may apply for unrestricted grants supporting living or working expenses. Eligible disciplines include dance, music, visual art, public art, folk and traditional arts, media arts, literary arts, and theatre. Applicants must not be enrolled in any matriculated degree program.

Each grant is $2,500. Applications are reviewed for eligibility only, then awards are allocated by county proportion and selected by randomized lottery among eligible applicants.

FY26 applications opened February 10, 2026 and were due March 9, 2026 via SmartSimple. Funds must be spent or obligated by August 15, 2026.

Maryland State Arts Council Grants for Artists aim to strengthen the state's creative workforce through holistic artist support.