ArtsNow Grant Programs

Photo Credit (Akron Art Museum, Ilenia Pezzaniti)

ArtsNow is proud to offer a range of unique grant opportunities to support the arts and culture sector in Summit County, aligned with the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan. These grants aim to foster creativity, enhance cultural experiences, and support community development. 

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Summit County Program Grants

ArtsForward

The ArtsForward program invites applications for projects that advance the goals of the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan. A diverse committee of funders, civic leaders, artists, and content experts will review applications. Grants will be awarded up to $25,000.

Applications Opened: March 1, 2025
Applications Closed: April 1, 2025 – 11:59PM
FAQ: artsnow.org/artsforward

Placemaking Grants

The Placemaking Project Grants are made available through generous investments from the National Endowment for the Arts and in partnership with the Summit County Land Bank.

All applications, attachments, and work samples will be submitted through ArtsNow’s online grant platform. This is an online, written application.

This funding provides direct support to artists and arts/cultural organizations working in Summit County communities. Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000. Eligible projects can include, but are not limited to:

  • Arts festivals, music, dance, literary or theatrical performances, or workshops.
  • Art, movement, literature/poetry, or music therapy programming.
  • Writing or visual art activities.
  • Projects must be held in public spaces such as parks, libraries, community centers, and neighborhood greenspaces. 

Applications Opened: February 1, 2025
Closed: March 1, 2025 – 11:59PM

Please review the grant overview page prior to applying.

Wall Call: Public Arts in Cuyahoga Falls

Overview
ArtsNow is seeking proposals for public art projects aligned with the “Public Art” priority of the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan. The public art will focus on enhancing the city of Cuyahoga Falls through visual art that is accessible to the public and enriches the community. Eligible businesses must be based in one of the following districts:

Downtown District/Riverfront Parkway

South State Road Corridor

Bailey Road Corridor

Property owner would commit to:

  • Ensuring the wall is structurally sound and prepared for a mural (or committing to necessary preparation before installation).
  • Collaborating with the artist to support the long-term care of the mural, including maintenance as needed until the work reaches the end of its lifespan.
  • Participating in the artwork selection process or succeeding responsibility to the selection committee.
  • Notifying the artist and the City when the mural requires maintenance or attention.

Application: To review the full application without logging-in, please follow this link.

Ready to learn more or apply? Please follow this link.

Applications Opened: June 1, 2025
Closed: July 11, 2025

Creative Investment Program (CIP)

Creative Investment Program

The Creative Investment Program (CIP) provides grants of up to $2,500 to help Summit County artists and creatives invest in their professional growth. By supporting skill-building, training, and career-advancing opportunities, CIP empowers local talent to expand their practice and strengthen our region’s creative ecosystem.

Applications Now Open!

Additional Funding Opportunities

If your proposal is not a fit for one of our grant programs, there are other opportunities available! ArtsNow put together a list of additional funding resources for artists and nonprofits:

Funding Opportunities for Nonprofits

Funding Opportunities for Individuals

How to Apply

Applications are available through the portal and include application instructions.

ArtsNow is committed to fostering a thriving arts community in Summit County, and we look forward to supporting innovative, impactful projects in 2025.

Contact Information
Email: Grants@ArtsNow.org

“The funding community recognized the immense potential of the Cultural Plan and knew it was time to ignite that vision. We’re excited to expand the ArtsNow Grant Program, which will fuel creativity, enrich cultural experiences, and drive immense growth for our sector in Summit County.” – Nicole Mullet