Native Arts New England

How do I apply for this grant?

NEW! 
  Native Arts Program
  Guidelines

  (printable version)
Review Eligibility

Review Funding Criteria
View deadlines

Questions about this grant?

Assistance or more information on applying
nativearts@nefa.org
617.951.0010 x533
617.951.0010 x525

Native Arts is made possible with lead funding from the Ford Foundation's Indigenous Knowledge and Expressive Culture program, with additional funding from the Bay and Paul Foundations, the National Endowment for the Arts, and Anonymous.

 

Native Arts New England supports artmaking by Native artists residing in the six New England states, with a focus on involvement of and benefit to New England communities. 

Grants in amounts up to $3,000 each are available to support Native artists residing in New England. Native Arts New England supports projects that focus on artmaking, and the involvement of and benefit to New England communities. Projects may address preservation of arts and cultural traditions, contemporary native arts and/or training and technical assistance that will support and/or enhance the artists current work. 

 

Eligibility

The following are eligible to apply:

  • Native artists demonstrating knowledge and experience in their art form, medium, or media
  • Native organizations committed to preserving and encouraging art and art making in their communities
  • Artists and organization leaders who are members of or affiliated with a Native American tribal nation and reside in one of the six New England states

Artists and organizations who have previously received Native Arts funding from NEFA are eligible to apply, if the prior funded projects are complete and final reports have been submitted. 

 

Examples of projects Native Arts New England will consider

  • Apprenticeship projects
  • Public art projects
  • Language projects that use art
  • Developing current work or medium
  • Learning new artistic skills
  • Creative partnerships
  • Professional development
  • Promotional material development
  • Research and documentation
  • Digital portfolio development (photography writing and design)

 

General Process

  • Applicants will submit written project proposals and supporting materials following these guidelines.
  • A panel of Native arts advisors will review proposals following each application deadline. This panel will make funding recommendations.
  • The application process is competitive. Awards will be based on submission of a complete application package that fully meets the review criteria. Please review all guidelines carefully.
  • Panel comments will be available to applicants, whether funded or not, to assist in the preparation of future proposals. 

 

How can I get assistance or more information on applying?

 

  • Informational sessions: Grant application informational sessions are offered at various points throughout the year. These sessions provide guidance for understanding the Native Arts funding guidelines and preparation of proposals, as well as information about other NEFA programs and ways to identify and connect with other available resources.
  • Workshops: Grant workshops are offered in winter and in summer of each year prior to each deadline period. If you are interested in hosting a workshop in your community, please contact NEFA.  
  • Questions and technical assistance: For more information on sessions, workshops, or for assistance, contact NEFA staff. All inquiries are welcome. All applicants are strongly encouraged to call and discuss their application with Dawn Spears, Native Arts Coordinator:

    Dawn Spears
    Native Arts Program Coordinator
    617.951.0010 x525
    dspears@nefa.org

    Erin Johnstone
    Program Associate,
    Presenting & Touring, Native Arts
    617.951.0010 x533
    ejohnstone@nefa.org

Culture Count: New England's Cultural Database
Matchbook.org: Find an artist or venue, or create a listing
NEFA Network: A community forum