FEE: Free to apply
Grant Opportunity: Leslye Orr Fund for Artists with Disabilities
APPLICATION PERIOD: October 7, 2026–April 6, 2027
DEADLINE: Tuesday, April 6, 2027 | 11:59 PM
AWARD: $2,000 per artist | Five grants per funding cycle
ELIGIBILITY: Minnesota artists with disabilities
SELECTION PROCESS: Randomized drawing of eligible applicants
Springboard for the Arts is accepting applications for Cycle II of the Leslye Orr Fund for Artists with Disabilities, providing direct financial support to Minnesota artists with disabilities to create new work, develop their artistic practices, and invest in their careers.
The fund awards five $2,000 grants per funding cycle, with recipients selected through a randomized drawing rather than a competitive review process. Cycle II applications are open through April 6, 2027, with recipients notified by April 30, 2027.
Established in honor of Leslye Orr (1955–2025), a Minnesota playwright, performer, educator, and disability advocate, the fund celebrates her belief in “the possibilities of disabilities.” Throughout her career, Orr championed inclusion, creativity, and opportunities for artists of all abilities to share their stories.
The fund continues her legacy by supporting artistic expression, accessibility, and community connection among Minnesota artists with disabilities.
