EVENT LINK: https://mnbookarts.org/mcknight-fellowships.

FEE: Free to apply

Applications for the 2026 McKnight Fellowships for Book Artists are open!

Minnesota Center for Book Arts is pleased to partner with the McKnight Foundation to offer two fellowships to beyond-emerging artists living and working in Minnesota who show sustained experience in the book arts.

If you are a Minnesota-based book artist, this is an incredible opportunity to grow both artistically and professionally alongside other creatives.

2026 Fellowship Benefits Include:

• Unrestricted $25,000 award

• Studio visits from a national critic/curator

• $1,000 travel stipend to attend a conference

• Opportunity to participate in public artist panel

• $1,000 educational stipend

• Two years of MCBA studio access

• Opportunity to attend an artist residency with stipend

• Group exhibition in MCBA’s Main Gallery

Minnesota Center for Book Arts values a culture of equity and inclusion and encourages artists with diverse cultural backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.

Timeline

December 5, 2025
Application cycle opens

January 21, 2026 • 6–7pm CT
Virtual information session
(Click link above to register)

February 24, 2026 • 7–8pm CT
Ask Me Anything with Director of Artist Programs, Anika Schneider
(Click link above to register)

March 6, 2026 • 11:59pm CT
Applications due

May 29, 2026
Fellows announced

August 1, 2026–July 31, 2027
2026 fellowship period

EVENT LINK: https://www.midatlanticarts.org/opportunity/usartists-international/

FEE: Free to apply

USArtists International

Application Open - Apply by Wednesday, February 25, 2026

USArtists International® (USAI) supports U.S. artists' with eligible performance engagements abroad, providing grants of up to $11,000 that can help cover expenses like flights, lodging, per diems and more. The program funds individuals and ensembles that meet criteria that are based anywhere in the U.S. across all performing arts practices and disciplines.

To apply, you must have at least one invitation to perform at an international festival outside the U.S. where you are being paid an artist fee, or an invitation to perform at a global performing arts market like CINARS or PAMS. Review the updated guidelines for additional eligibility requirements, updates to the program, and details on the 1:1 grant matching requirement. 

New this year: Artists that do not have non-profit status may no longer apply for this program with a non-profit fiscal sponsor. This is due to a policy change by our funder. Instead, artists that do not have non-profit status may apply directly as an individual. Individuals that receive grant funds on behalf of themself or their ensemble will receive a 1099 from Mid Atlantic Arts and are liable for any tax burden of receiving the grant. Review guidelines for additional info and attend this webinar to learn more about potential tax impacts. 

Learn More / Apply Today

Applicants with eligible performance engagements between June 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027 can apply at the next deadline on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Notifications of funding decisions are sent by May 20, 2026.  

EVENT LINK: https://www.loringparkartfestival.com/2026-applications

FEE: $35.00 (Application Fee)

Loring Park Art Festival 2026 — Call for Applicants

Loring Part Art Festival was created by artists for artists.  We strive to create a pleasant and successful event for all our artists and visitors.  Artists frequently report the festival is one of their top three festivals of the year.  We are listed on Sunshine Artist Magazines top 100 Fine Art shows in the US.

IMPORTANT DATES:

• March 20, 2026 - Application deadline

• March 30, 2026 - Notifications

• April 20, 2026 - Accept/confirmation deadline

• July 25, 2026 - Festival, 10am-6pm

• July 26, 2026 - Festival, 10am-5pm

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

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.