The City of Peoria is proud to announce the opening of the 2026-27 Arts and Culture Grant Program, designed to support creative projects, programs, and events that enrich the community and enhance quality of life throughout Peoria.
Administered by the Arts, Culture and Library Services Department, this competitive grant program invests in initiatives that are inclusive, accessible, and community-focused, aligning with the City’s Arts and Culture Plan to activate Peoria as a vibrant destination for arts and culture.
Program Purpose and Community Impact
The Arts and Culture Grant Program is intended to:
- Activate Peoria as a destination for arts and culture
- Expand access to creative experiences for residents and visitors
- Support lifelong learning and cultural engagement across all ages
- Encourage projects that reflect Peoria’s diversity and foster inclusion
Funded projects must clearly identify a specific public benefit and demonstrate how the proposed activity enhances community connection, cultural access, or artistic opportunity within Peoria.
Be sure to review the grant guidelines for submission tips, how to submit your application and how the application will be evaluated.
For additional information on the Arts and Culture Grant including 2026 arts grant recipients, frequently asked questions and the Arts and Culture Grant Budget Form, please visit the Arts & Culture Grant Program website.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Schools and educational institutions
- Businesses and creative organizations
- Homeowner Associations (HOAs)
All funded projects and events must take place within Peoria city limits and be open and accessible to the public. Applicants may not exceed $20,000 in total funding across eligible categories during the FY27 grant cycle.
What the Grant Program Supports
The Arts and Culture Grant Program provides funding for projects taking place September 1, 2026 through May 30, 2027, with opportunities available for organizations, schools, businesses, and homeowner associations.
Available Grant Categories
Applicants may apply under the following categories
- Arts Projects / Programs / Performances
Visual arts, performing arts, and creative sector initiatives that engage the community and expand artistic access.
- Community Events
Public events hosted within Peoria that foster cultural connection and community participation.
- Tier I: One event, up to $20,000
- Tier II: Two events, up to $10,000 each (maximum $20,000 total)
- HOA Events
Neighborhood-based events with a strong arts and culture component, up to $3,000.
Funding may be used for eligible direct costs such as artist fees, production expenses, marketing, facility rentals, and infrastructure needs.
Key Dates to Know
- Grant cycle opens: January 30, 2026
- Workshops (in-person & virtual): February 17–19, 2026
- Application deadline: March 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
- Awards announced: August 2026
- Grant activity period: September 1, 2026 – May 30, 2027
- Final reports due: June 30, 2027
New applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a workshop or schedule a one-on-one review session with City staff.
How Applications Are Evaluated
Applications are reviewed by independent community panelists and evaluated on artistic quality, community benefit, accessibility, feasibility, and alignment with Peoria’s arts and culture goals. Final funding recommendations are reviewed by the Arts and Culture Commission and approved by City Council
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through Submittable by the March 30 deadline. Applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed narrative, project budget, marketing plan, and supporting materials.
Apply at: cityofpeoriaaz.submittable.com
Questions or Need Assistance?
City staff are available to help applicants navigate the process and strengthen their submissions.
Contact: Suzzanne Anicette, Arts & Culture Supervisor at [email protected] or (623) 773-5254.
Whether you’re launching a new creative program, hosting a signature community event, or bringing art directly into neighborhoods, the FY27 Arts and Culture Grant Program is an opportunity to help shape Peoria’s creative future. The City looks forward to supporting projects that inspire, connect, and celebrate our community.
Interested in participating without submitting an entry? Join the Grant Review Panel
Peoria’s Arts & Culture Division is seeking qualified community members to serve as grant review panelists for the upcoming grants cycle. Please submit CV / qualifications email to Suzzanne Anicette, Arts & Culture Supervisor [email protected] no later than April 6, 2026.
