Where can I find grants for individual artists?

Although most foundation grants are given to nonprofit organizations, some foundations will give directly to individuals, usually to help pay for their education or an artistic or research project.

To find foundation grants, we recommend Foundation Grants to Individuals Online, our searchable database of grantmakers that give to individuals. It is also available in print.

To use it from your own computer, you can subscribe online. Or, you can use it for free at our libraries and Cooperating Collections.

Fiscal sponsorship

You might find more funding opportunities if you can locate a nonprofit that will serve as your project's fiscal sponsor. This allows you to apply for grants and solicit tax-deductible charitable contributions under your sponsor’s exempt status. Learn more with our FAQ "What is fiscal sponsorship? How do I find a fiscal sponsor?"

New to grantseeking?

Learn more now with these resources:

- Grantseeking Basics for Individuals in the Arts webinar. (Also offered as an in-person class.) Free.

- Guide to Funding Research: Text-only, basic primer on the grantseeking process and an introduction to the available resources. Free.

- Grantseeking Basics for Individuals: Online training at your own pace. Fee.

- FAQ: How do I write a grant proposal for my individual project? Where can I find samples?

For extensive resources, visit our Individual Grantseekers page.

Selected resources below may also be helpful.

Web Sites

Books & Articles

Check title availability at our libraries and Cooperating Collections or through your local library.

Do you still have questions? Ask us.
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