EVENT LINK: https://springboardforthearts.org/programs/leslye-orr-fund-for-artists-with-disabilities/

FEE: Free to apply

The Leslye Orr Fund for Artists with Disabilities

The Leslye Orr Fund provides non-competitive direct support for artists with disabilities in Minnesota to create work and invest in their careers. Inspired by Leslye Orr’s advocacy for “the possibilities of disabilities,” this fund fosters artistry, inclusivity, and community joy. 

4 Minnesota-based artists will be selected through a randomized drawing process of eligible applicants

• Each artist will receive a $2500 unrestricted grant in recognition of their work

• This opportunity is open to artists of all disciplines that self-identify as an individual with disabilities.

Deadline: Apply by Sunday, April 6, 2026

Call for Building Activation Projects
in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Montana

2026-2028 Activate Rural Learning Lab

Calling all rural builders, dreamers, and community shapers!

The 2026 – 2028 Activate Rural Learning Lab is gearing up, and the Call for Building Activation Projects in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Montana officially opens January 5, 2026!

If you’re eager to bring new life, connection, and creativity into a rural space, now’s the time to start imagining what’s possible. You can preview the application materials today!

The Activate Rural Learning Lab is a curated cohort program designed for teams of creative entrepreneurs, artists, community activators, elected leaders, and small business owners who want to cultivate vibrant third places in their communities.

Participants receive:

• Grant funding

• Monthly project check-ins

• Exchange visits & workshops

• Gatherings with peers across the region

• Dedicated staff support to help build systems for operations, activations, and long-term stewardship

• If you’re ready to bring a building to life and strengthen community in the process, we’d love to see what you’re dreaming up.

Timeline

• January 5, 2026: Online application form opens

• January 21, 2026: Virtual Informational Session (12-1pm)

• will be recorded and made available on our website

• February 20, 2026: Online Application forms due at 11:59 pm CST

• March 2026: Selection committee review applications

• April 6-10, 2026: Applicant notifications and 30 minute Zoom meetings with finalists

• May 2026: Public announcement of selected 10 cohort teams and projects

Visit here for a PDF Preview of the Application Materials -> link.publictransformation.org/ARPreview

EVENT LINK: https://www.arts.state.mn.us/grants/creative-individuals.htm

FEE: Free to apply

Minnesota State Arts Board | Creative Individuals Grant

Creative Individuals Grant (FY 2027) – Now Open
This pilot program provides funding for individual artists and culture bearers to develop or sustain their creative practice and meaningfully engage with Minnesotans through audiences, participants, students, and/or community activities.

Grant Amount: $2,000–$10,000 (no cash match required)
Deadline: March 6, 2026 by 4:30 p.m.
Who Can Apply: Individual artists (dance, media arts, music, photography, poetry/prose, theater, visual art) and culture bearers trained by traditional elders or master artists.
Grant Period: January–December 2027 (awards approved November 2026)

Note: Applicants may apply to only one FY 2027 program (Creative Individuals, Arts Experiences, Arts Education, or Cultural Expression). FY 2026 Creative Individuals grantees are not eligible.