FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Arts United announced today a new grant program focused on art experiences in Southeast Fort Wayne.
Community Connections: Southeast Arts Project Grants is a grant program administered by Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne and energized by NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation.
Arts United released the following:
These grants are intended to bring together residents in Southeast Fort Wayne to enhance a sense of pride and community through unique artistic experiences. Grants will provide funding to support arts and culture projects in Southeast Fort Wayne.
“NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation’s mission is to help create strong and sustainable communities where our employees and customers live and work,” said Dana Berkes, NIPSCO Public Affairs and Economic Development Manager.
“Our partnership with Arts United builds on the community and economic development work happening in Southeast Fort Wayne, thereby creating another level of funding to support community connections, designed by and for Southeast Fort Wayne residents.”
The vision of the Community Connections program is to enlist residents in creating vibrant neighborhoods and communities in which they have a voice by promoting healthy partnerships with local organizations and fostering an environment that attracts further business and economic development through arts experiences.
“We are thrilled to partner with NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation on the Community Connections program,” said Heather Closson, Arts United’s Vice President of Community Engagement. “Our goal is to support and showcase the creativity of Southeast Fort Wayne through this grant program.”
Eligible projects include but are not limited to annual festivals, art, dance, music, or theatre classes, cultural celebrations, interactive arts experiences, and public art projects. Applicants may apply for up to $5,000 to complete their project. For 2023, this program has budgeted $50,000. Eligible expenses should directly relate to the arts and culture component of the project.
Applicants must live or be physically located in the southeast quadrant of Fort Wayne. This area includes all neighborhoods within city limits that are east of Calhoun Street and south of the Maumee River. Resources and organizations that are located outside of the southeast quadrant can be involved with a project but cannot apply on behalf of individuals or organizations that reside in that area of the city. Eligible applicants include art collectives, businesses, churches, individuals, neighborhood associations, nonprofit organizations, and schools.
Applications open on April 25, 2023. Application support sessions for those interested in learning more about the program will be available during the month of May. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2023.
Visit www.artsunited.org to find the full grant application and guidelines.
