Submit Applications for Artist Projects 2025 (US)

Funding Information

• Applicants of all disciplines can apply for up to $10,000. Eight filmmakers will be awarded up to $25,000; additional awards may be given to filmmakers up to $10,000.

Eligible Projects

• Projects should:
  • Take place in Franklin County and aim to demonstrate artistic, community, and/or cultural value to the general public
  • Provide compensation to artist(s) engaged in one or more art forms supported by GCAC: dance, fashion, film, literary, music, theatre, visual and multidisciplinary arts
  • Show alignment with GCAC’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement.

Eligibility Criteria

• This grant program is for working artists in the following disciplines: dance, fashion, film, literary, music, theatre, visual and multidisciplinary arts who meet the following criteria:
  • Are working artists (age 18 and older):
    • GCAC’s Definition of a working artist:
      • Has a portfolio, body of work, collection, published works, or performance history;
      • Is likely paid for performances, sells their artwork, or is otherwise compensated for their artistic creation;
      • Routinely dedicates time to the creation of art and regularly shares their artwork with the public through performances, film festivals, fashion shows, publishing, exhibitions, etc.;
      • May have formal or informal training and seeks to improve their artistic skillset; actively engages with artistic community;
      • Is focused on expressing their own creative and aesthetic ideas, rather than on documentation or journalism:
        • Filmmakers are welcome to submit projects within the documentary genre.
    • Residency in Franklin County for at least one year prior to application; or:
      • Residency in a county bordering Franklin County for at least one year prior to application and primarily exhibit, perform, produce or present artistic work in the city of Columbus; (you will be required to upload proof of residency after you are awarded before any funds are dispersed.)
      • Applicant agrees to remain a resident of central Ohio for one year after the award date.
    • Are not enrolled as degree-seeking undergraduate students.

Ineligibility Criteria

• They recognize that many people contribute to the creative economy of central Ohio. They appreciate the talents of all creatives working in their region. However, due to limited funding, they are unable to accept applications from:
  • Influencers or YouTube/TikTok/Instagram content creators
  • Culinary artists/chefs
  • Models and stylists
  • Body artists (make-up, nails, hair, tattoo, etc.)
  • Producers/creative directors
  • Sound/recording engineers
  • Strictly commercial photographers/videographers (e.g. weddings/family portraits/business headshots)
  • Strictly club or mobile DJs hired for private or public events (e.g. weddings, clubs and parties)
  • Worship leaders
  • Artificial Intelligence artists/AI Art

For more information, visit GCAC.