First-time applicants are encouraged to communicate with staff in advance of submitting an application. Read the “How To Apply” section before filling out your application and use the appropriate forms.

Courtesy Review
Request a courtesy review at least three weeks before the application deadline. Staff suggestions may strengthen your application; however, this process does not guarantee funding.

How to Apply
Applications are limited to one within a grant category for each deadline. Use 1” margins and a standard font no smaller than 12 point or neatly handwrite. A comprehensive well-crafted application provides all the information necessary for panel review. Since incomplete applications may be returned, fill out and include the checklist. Answer all questions on the application form, and include the required narrative. The narrative is the heart of the application. It is your opportunity to communicate with the panel. It must NOT exceed the page limitation. The published evaluation criteria can serve as a guide.

Read the Legal Requirements carefully and note that submission of this signed application verifies that you have read and agree with all rules, regulations, policies, laws, terms, and conditions. Make a copy for your files.

Submission
Applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered by the deadline. Deadlines are strictly enforced and late applications will be returned. All eligibility requirements must be met on the date of application. Applications or support materials cannot be submitted by fax or other electronic methods. Applications are processed and reviewed for eligibility and completeness, then sent to a review panel for evaluation.

Panel Review and Attendance at Panel Meetings
All applications go through an extensive review process by professional peer panelists who provide diverse viewpoints within the discipline and broad demographic representation. Out-of-state experts are often used to help ensure fairness and to eliminate conflicts of interest. Panelists evaluate applications based on published evaluation criteria and propose recommendations to Commissioners who make all final funding decisions. Applicants are encouraged to attend these public meetings to gain a better understanding of how the panel process works.

Grants and Awards
All grants and awards are contingent upon availability of funds. Applicants will be notified about funding as soon as possible after Commission approval. Funds will be available after July 1 for annual grants, awards, and June QuickFund$. Because these funds are taxable, consult a tax preparer for further information. Keep pertinent records for a minimum of three years. Ten percent (10%) of the funds will be held until the final report is submitted.

Final Reports
The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends June 30 of the following year. Final reports are a critical part of our agency report to the NEA. Submit a final financial and narrative report within 30 days after completion of the project, or at the end of the grant period, whichever occurs first. Grantees in any program who fail to file a final report will forfeit the 10% final payment and will not be eligible to apply for future funding. Extension Requests must be submitted in writing to the Grants Unit prior to June 30.

Visit Final report forms page.

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