Arts Build Communities FY26 Grant Applications are Now Open

By Mellissa Moody,  Arts Build Communities Coordinator –

The Tennessee Arts Commission is currently accepting applications for the Arts Build Communities (ABC) grant program! This is your chance to get funding for projects that bring the arts to your community.

The Arts Build Communities Grant category provides support for arts projects that broaden access to arts experiences, address community quality of life issues through the arts, or enhance the sustainability of asset-based cultural enterprises. Project examples include performances by professional artists, concerts, festivals, exhibitions, murals, creative placemaking projects, and training for artists and arts administrators.

501c3 non-profit organizations legally chartered and headquartered in Tennessee and local government entities may request up to $5000 for proposed projects. For FY26, ABC is a non-matching grant.

Ready to apply?

Head over to the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Online Grants System. New users will need to register their organization first and create an organization profile. The application opens on April 1, 2025, and the deadline to apply is July 1, 2025, at 11:59 pm CT.

Need more information? View the ABC Guidelines and Attend a Grant Workshop

ABC is administered through a network of designated agencies. To find the designated agency serving your county, refer to the ABC Guidelines. Beginning in April, DA’s will be offering grant workshops. Workshops are an excellent resource for new and returning ABC applicants to learn about program requirements, the application, and panel review process.

Questions?

Contact your designated agency or Melissa Moody, Arts Build Communities Coordinator, at melissa.moody@tn.gov or 615-253-5133.