NYSCA Statewide Community Regrants (SCR)

Administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR)

  

Overview

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) provides public funding to arts and cultural organizations across New York State. The Statewide Community Regrants (SCR) Program, established in 1977, is designed to increase access to the arts and strengthen local communities in every county.

The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR) serves as the SCR regrant site for Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady Counties. ACCR distributes SCR funds through a competitive, peer-reviewed process and provides technical assistance to applicants.

This document outlines all SCR funding opportunities administered by ACCR, including eligibility requirements, funding categories, budget guidelines, and application materials. Applicants are encouraged to review all sections carefully before applying.

  

Program Timeline (2026 Cycle)

· Application Opens: Friday, January 30, 2026

· Application Deadline: Friday, March 20, 2026

Online Information Sessions (via Zoom, 3:00–4:00 PM):

· Thursday, February 26, 2026

· Thursday, March 5, 2026

· Thursday, March 12, 2026

· Panel Review: April 2026

· Awards Announced: TBD

· Project Period: July 1–December 31, 2026

  

General Eligibility (All Categories)

To be eligible, applicants must:

· Be based in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

· Carry out the funded project within the same county as the applicant’s legal address

· Be in good standing with prior SCR awards, including submission of all required reports

Applicants may submit up to three total requests across all SCR categories, with a maximum combined request of $7,500 per applicant per funding cycle.

Requests submitted through a fiscal sponsor do not count toward the sponsor’s request or dollar limits.

SCR funds may support up to 100 percent of eligible project costs. A matching contribution is not required.

  

Funding Categories

1. Community Arts Grants

Purpose Supports public-facing arts projects that engage communities and increase access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences.

Award Amount $2,500–$5,000 per project

Who May Apply

· New York State–based nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3))

· Individual artists or collectives working with an eligible fiscal sponsor

· Municipal or governmental entities

Project Requirements

· Activities must be open and accessible to the general public

· Projects may not be invite-only, membership-based, or tuition-based

· Projects must demonstrate meaningful community engagement

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Public exhibitions or installations

· Performances, concerts, screenings, or readings

· Festivals or community arts events

· Murals or public art projects

· Free or low-cost workshops open to the public

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist and performer fees

· Production and presentation costs

· Marketing, design, and publicity expenses

· Project-specific materials and supplies

· Short-term, non-permanent equipment or software required to present the project

  

2. Arts Education Grants

Purpose Supports sequential, skills-based arts learning experiences for closed groups of learners, delivered in partnership with schools or community-based organizations.

Award Amount $1,000–$2,500 per project

Who May Apply

· Individual artists or teaching artists

· Nonprofit organizations

Project Requirements

· Minimum of three sequential, skills-based learning sessions

· Closed group of participants

· Must not replace or supplant certified arts teachers in schools

· Must be conducted in partnership with a public school or community-based organization

Examples of Eligible Projects

· In-school artist residencies

· After-school arts programs

· Multi-session workshops for youth, adults, or seniors

· Community-based learning programs with defined participants

SCR Funds May Support

· Teaching artist fees

· Curriculum development directly tied to the project

· Learning materials and consumable supplies

· Transportation related to program delivery

· Project-specific administrative or coordination costs

  

3. Individual Artist Grants

Purpose Supports individual artists in the creation, development, or advancement of their artistic practice, with one required community engagement component.

Award Amount $5,000 (fixed award)

Who May Apply

· Individual artists age 18 or older

· Artists must reside in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

Project Requirements

· Projects must take place within the artist’s county of residence

· Projects must prioritize artistic creation, research, development, or career advancement

· Must include a public-facing program or clearly defined community engagement activity

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Creation of a new body of work

· Research and development for future projects

· Studio-based work paired with a public artist talk or workshop

· Community collaboration integrated into an individual artistic practice

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist time and labor

· Materials and supplies required for creation

· Documentation, promotion, or presentation costs

· Project-related travel within the region

· Short-term tools or software essential to completing the work

  

Budget Guidelines (All Categories)

Budgets must reflect costs that are directly related to the proposed project and necessary for its successful completion. Budgets should be clear, realistic, and aligned with the project description.

Eligible Expenses

· Artist, performer, or teaching artist fees and stipends

· Marketing, publicity, and audience outreach expenses

· Direct project-related administrative or coordination costs

· Consumable supplies and materials

· Short-term software, subscriptions, or tools essential to the project

Individual equipment or software items may not exceed $1,000 and may not be retained for general organizational use.

Ineligible Expenses

· General operating or overhead expenses unrelated to the project

· Capital improvements or permanent equipment

· Fundraising activities, benefits, or events

· Cash prizes, scholarships, awards, or regranting to others

· Religious, therapeutic, or recreational programs

· Payments made directly to minors

  

Evaluation & Review Process

Applications are reviewed by a peer panel of artists, arts administrators, educators, and community members. Panelists evaluate applications based on:

· Artistic merit and quality of work

· Community benefit and access

· Feasibility and clarity of the proposed project

· Applicant capacity to complete the project

Funding recommendations are based on panel scores, available funds, and local priorities.

  

Post-Award Responsibilities

Awardees must:

· Carry out the project as approved

· Credit NYSCA and ACCR in all promotional materials

· Notify ACCR in advance of any proposed project changes

· Submit a final report within 30 days of project completion

Failure to meet these requirements may affect future eligibility.

  

Appeals Process

Appeals must be submitted within ten (10) days of award notification and must be based on:

1. Procedural error

2. Misrepresentation of information

3. Conflict of interest or bias

Funding decisions may not be appealed solely on the basis of dissatisfaction.

  

Which Category Should I Apply To?

Applicants should choose the category that best reflects the primary purpose of the project.

Community Arts Grants are appropriate if the project is open to the general public and prioritizes public access and engagement.

Arts Education Grants are appropriate if the project serves a closed group of learners through sequential instruction.

Individual Artist Grants are appropriate if the applicant is an individual artist seeking support for creative or professional development with one community engagement component.

Applicants unsure of category fit are encouraged to contact ACCR prior to applying.

  

 

 

 

Appendix A: Application Materials & Readiness Guide

This appendix supports applicant preparedness and clarifies submission requirements.

Project Readiness Checklist

Applicants should be able to confirm that:

· The project has a clearly defined goal and scope

· The project takes place within the eligible counties

· The project fits one SCR category

· Required partners and fiscal sponsors are confirmed

· The timeline fits the SCR project period

· The budget includes only project-specific costs

Application Materials Checklist

Required for All Applicants

· Completed online application

· Project description and timeline

· Target audience or community description

· Project budget

· Work samples (as applicable)

Additional for Organizations

· Proof of nonprofit or governmental status

· Current NYS Charities filing (if applicable)

· Board list and key personnel

· Most recent financial statement

Additional for Individual Artists

· Proof of residency

· Resume or brief biography

Applying with a Fiscal Sponsor

Artists or collectives without nonprofit status may apply through a fiscal sponsor. A signed agreement outlining roles and responsibilities is required. Fiscal sponsors must be New York State–based nonprofits in good standing and will receive and manage funds on behalf of the applicant.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS Checklists available in applications

Supplemental Files Checklist (INDIVUDUAL ARTIST)

· Proof of NYS residency (see guidelines for a list of acceptable documents)

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved.

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures etc. or other support materials to help the panel better understand your Arts Programming history and needs

Supplemental Files Checklist (COMMUNITY ARTS)

· Proof of non-profit status 

• Letter       of Determination from the IRS indicating tax exempt status under       501(c)(3). 
• Documentation       of charter by the NY State Board of Regents under 216 of the NYS       Education Law
• Current       NY State Bureau of Charities (Office of the Attorney General) filing       receipt. 
• Official       authorization as an arm of local government (i.e. formal letter on       official stationery signed by appropriate county, city, town, or village       executive).

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures to help the panel better understand your programming history

· Letter of Agreement between the participating artist(s) and applicant (FOR DIRECT NON-PROFIT USE ONLY)

· A list of the organization's Board of Directors

· The organization's last complete year's financial statement

Supplemental Files Upload Checklist (Arts Education)

· Proof of non-profit status (see guidelines)

· Letter of Commitment between artist(s) and School or artist(s) and Community-based Organization

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of participating artists

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· List of Board of Directors

· Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement (if working with a fiscal sponsor)

  

Support & Technical Assistance

Technical assistance is available by appointment and is strongly encouraged.

Contact: Grants@artscenteronline.org

  

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature

 

NYSCA Statewide Community Regrants (SCR)

Administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR)

  

Overview

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) provides public funding to arts and cultural organizations across New York State. The Statewide Community Regrants (SCR) Program, established in 1977, is designed to increase access to the arts and strengthen local communities in every county.

The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR) serves as the SCR regrant site for Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady Counties. ACCR distributes SCR funds through a competitive, peer-reviewed process and provides technical assistance to applicants.

This document outlines all SCR funding opportunities administered by ACCR, including eligibility requirements, funding categories, budget guidelines, and application materials. Applicants are encouraged to review all sections carefully before applying.

  

Program Timeline (2026 Cycle)

· Application Opens: Friday, January 30, 2026

· Application Deadline: Friday, March 20, 2026

Online Information Sessions (via Zoom, 3:00–4:00 PM):

· Thursday, February 26, 2026

· Thursday, March 5, 2026

· Thursday, March 12, 2026

· Panel Review: April 2026

· Awards Announced: TBD

· Project Period: July 1–December 31, 2026

  

General Eligibility (All Categories)

To be eligible, applicants must:

· Be based in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

· Carry out the funded project within the same county as the applicant’s legal address

· Be in good standing with prior SCR awards, including submission of all required reports

Applicants may submit up to three total requests across all SCR categories, with a maximum combined request of $7,500 per applicant per funding cycle.

Requests submitted through a fiscal sponsor do not count toward the sponsor’s request or dollar limits.

SCR funds may support up to 100 percent of eligible project costs. A matching contribution is not required.

  

Funding Categories

1. Community Arts Grants

Purpose Supports public-facing arts projects that engage communities and increase access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences.

Award Amount $2,500–$5,000 per project

Who May Apply

· New York State–based nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3))

· Individual artists or collectives working with an eligible fiscal sponsor

· Municipal or governmental entities

Project Requirements

· Activities must be open and accessible to the general public

· Projects may not be invite-only, membership-based, or tuition-based

· Projects must demonstrate meaningful community engagement

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Public exhibitions or installations

· Performances, concerts, screenings, or readings

· Festivals or community arts events

· Murals or public art projects

· Free or low-cost workshops open to the public

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist and performer fees

· Production and presentation costs

· Marketing, design, and publicity expenses

· Project-specific materials and supplies

· Short-term, non-permanent equipment or software required to present the project

  

2. Arts Education Grants

Purpose Supports sequential, skills-based arts learning experiences for closed groups of learners, delivered in partnership with schools or community-based organizations.

Award Amount $1,000–$2,500 per project

Who May Apply

· Individual artists or teaching artists

· Nonprofit organizations

Project Requirements

· Minimum of three sequential, skills-based learning sessions

· Closed group of participants

· Must not replace or supplant certified arts teachers in schools

· Must be conducted in partnership with a public school or community-based organization

Examples of Eligible Projects

· In-school artist residencies

· After-school arts programs

· Multi-session workshops for youth, adults, or seniors

· Community-based learning programs with defined participants

SCR Funds May Support

· Teaching artist fees

· Curriculum development directly tied to the project

· Learning materials and consumable supplies

· Transportation related to program delivery

· Project-specific administrative or coordination costs

  

3. Individual Artist Grants

Purpose Supports individual artists in the creation, development, or advancement of their artistic practice, with one required community engagement component.

Award Amount $5,000 (fixed award)

Who May Apply

· Individual artists age 18 or older

· Artists must reside in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

Project Requirements

· Projects must take place within the artist’s county of residence

· Projects must prioritize artistic creation, research, development, or career advancement

· Must include a public-facing program or clearly defined community engagement activity

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Creation of a new body of work

· Research and development for future projects

· Studio-based work paired with a public artist talk or workshop

· Community collaboration integrated into an individual artistic practice

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist time and labor

· Materials and supplies required for creation

· Documentation, promotion, or presentation costs

· Project-related travel within the region

· Short-term tools or software essential to completing the work

  

Budget Guidelines (All Categories)

Budgets must reflect costs that are directly related to the proposed project and necessary for its successful completion. Budgets should be clear, realistic, and aligned with the project description.

Eligible Expenses

· Artist, performer, or teaching artist fees and stipends

· Marketing, publicity, and audience outreach expenses

· Direct project-related administrative or coordination costs

· Consumable supplies and materials

· Short-term software, subscriptions, or tools essential to the project

Individual equipment or software items may not exceed $1,000 and may not be retained for general organizational use.

Ineligible Expenses

· General operating or overhead expenses unrelated to the project

· Capital improvements or permanent equipment

· Fundraising activities, benefits, or events

· Cash prizes, scholarships, awards, or regranting to others

· Religious, therapeutic, or recreational programs

· Payments made directly to minors

  

Evaluation & Review Process

Applications are reviewed by a peer panel of artists, arts administrators, educators, and community members. Panelists evaluate applications based on:

· Artistic merit and quality of work

· Community benefit and access

· Feasibility and clarity of the proposed project

· Applicant capacity to complete the project

Funding recommendations are based on panel scores, available funds, and local priorities.

  

Post-Award Responsibilities

Awardees must:

· Carry out the project as approved

· Credit NYSCA and ACCR in all promotional materials

· Notify ACCR in advance of any proposed project changes

· Submit a final report within 30 days of project completion

Failure to meet these requirements may affect future eligibility.

  

Appeals Process

Appeals must be submitted within ten (10) days of award notification and must be based on:

1. Procedural error

2. Misrepresentation of information

3. Conflict of interest or bias

Funding decisions may not be appealed solely on the basis of dissatisfaction.

  

Which Category Should I Apply To?

Applicants should choose the category that best reflects the primary purpose of the project.

Community Arts Grants are appropriate if the project is open to the general public and prioritizes public access and engagement.

Arts Education Grants are appropriate if the project serves a closed group of learners through sequential instruction.

Individual Artist Grants are appropriate if the applicant is an individual artist seeking support for creative or professional development with one community engagement component.

Applicants unsure of category fit are encouraged to contact ACCR prior to applying.

  

 

 

 

Appendix A: Application Materials & Readiness Guide

This appendix supports applicant preparedness and clarifies submission requirements.

Project Readiness Checklist

Applicants should be able to confirm that:

· The project has a clearly defined goal and scope

· The project takes place within the eligible counties

· The project fits one SCR category

· Required partners and fiscal sponsors are confirmed

· The timeline fits the SCR project period

· The budget includes only project-specific costs

Application Materials Checklist

Required for All Applicants

· Completed online application

· Project description and timeline

· Target audience or community description

· Project budget

· Work samples (as applicable)

Additional for Organizations

· Proof of nonprofit or governmental status

· Current NYS Charities filing (if applicable)

· Board list and key personnel

· Most recent financial statement

Additional for Individual Artists

· Proof of residency

· Resume or brief biography

Applying with a Fiscal Sponsor

Artists or collectives without nonprofit status may apply through a fiscal sponsor. A signed agreement outlining roles and responsibilities is required. Fiscal sponsors must be New York State–based nonprofits in good standing and will receive and manage funds on behalf of the applicant.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS Checklists available in applications

Supplemental Files Checklist (INDIVUDUAL ARTIST)

· Proof of NYS residency (see guidelines for a list of acceptable documents)

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved.

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures etc. or other support materials to help the panel better understand your Arts Programming history and needs

Supplemental Files Checklist (COMMUNITY ARTS)

· Proof of non-profit status 

• Letter       of Determination from the IRS indicating tax exempt status under       501(c)(3). 
• Documentation       of charter by the NY State Board of Regents under 216 of the NYS       Education Law
• Current       NY State Bureau of Charities (Office of the Attorney General) filing       receipt. 
• Official       authorization as an arm of local government (i.e. formal letter on       official stationery signed by appropriate county, city, town, or village       executive).

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures to help the panel better understand your programming history

· Letter of Agreement between the participating artist(s) and applicant (FOR DIRECT NON-PROFIT USE ONLY)

· A list of the organization's Board of Directors

· The organization's last complete year's financial statement

Supplemental Files Upload Checklist (Arts Education)

· Proof of non-profit status (see guidelines)

· Letter of Commitment between artist(s) and School or artist(s) and Community-based Organization

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of participating artists

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· List of Board of Directors

· Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement (if working with a fiscal sponsor)

  

Support & Technical Assistance

Technical assistance is available by appointment and is strongly encouraged.

Contact: Grants@artscenteronline.org

  

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature

 

NYSCA Statewide Community Regrants (SCR)

Administered by The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR)

  

Overview

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) provides public funding to arts and cultural organizations across New York State. The Statewide Community Regrants (SCR) Program, established in 1977, is designed to increase access to the arts and strengthen local communities in every county.

The Arts Center of the Capital Region (ACCR) serves as the SCR regrant site for Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady Counties. ACCR distributes SCR funds through a competitive, peer-reviewed process and provides technical assistance to applicants.

This document outlines all SCR funding opportunities administered by ACCR, including eligibility requirements, funding categories, budget guidelines, and application materials. Applicants are encouraged to review all sections carefully before applying.

  

Program Timeline (2026 Cycle)

· Application Opens: Friday, January 30, 2026

· Application Deadline: Friday, March 20, 2026

Online Information Sessions (via Zoom, 3:00–4:00 PM):

· Thursday, February 26, 2026

· Thursday, March 5, 2026

· Thursday, March 12, 2026

· Panel Review: April 2026

· Awards Announced: TBD

· Project Period: July 1–December 31, 2026

  

General Eligibility (All Categories)

To be eligible, applicants must:

· Be based in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

· Carry out the funded project within the same county as the applicant’s legal address

· Be in good standing with prior SCR awards, including submission of all required reports

Applicants may submit up to three total requests across all SCR categories, with a maximum combined request of $7,500 per applicant per funding cycle.

Requests submitted through a fiscal sponsor do not count toward the sponsor’s request or dollar limits.

SCR funds may support up to 100 percent of eligible project costs. A matching contribution is not required.

  

Funding Categories

1. Community Arts Grants

Purpose Supports public-facing arts projects that engage communities and increase access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences.

Award Amount $2,500–$5,000 per project

Who May Apply

· New York State–based nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3))

· Individual artists or collectives working with an eligible fiscal sponsor

· Municipal or governmental entities

Project Requirements

· Activities must be open and accessible to the general public

· Projects may not be invite-only, membership-based, or tuition-based

· Projects must demonstrate meaningful community engagement

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Public exhibitions or installations

· Performances, concerts, screenings, or readings

· Festivals or community arts events

· Murals or public art projects

· Free or low-cost workshops open to the public

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist and performer fees

· Production and presentation costs

· Marketing, design, and publicity expenses

· Project-specific materials and supplies

· Short-term, non-permanent equipment or software required to present the project

  

2. Arts Education Grants

Purpose Supports sequential, skills-based arts learning experiences for closed groups of learners, delivered in partnership with schools or community-based organizations.

Award Amount $1,000–$2,500 per project

Who May Apply

· Individual artists or teaching artists

· Nonprofit organizations

Project Requirements

· Minimum of three sequential, skills-based learning sessions

· Closed group of participants

· Must not replace or supplant certified arts teachers in schools

· Must be conducted in partnership with a public school or community-based organization

Examples of Eligible Projects

· In-school artist residencies

· After-school arts programs

· Multi-session workshops for youth, adults, or seniors

· Community-based learning programs with defined participants

SCR Funds May Support

· Teaching artist fees

· Curriculum development directly tied to the project

· Learning materials and consumable supplies

· Transportation related to program delivery

· Project-specific administrative or coordination costs

  

3. Individual Artist Grants

Purpose Supports individual artists in the creation, development, or advancement of their artistic practice, with one required community engagement component.

Award Amount $5,000 (fixed award)

Who May Apply

· Individual artists age 18 or older

· Artists must reside in Albany, Rensselaer, or Schenectady County

Project Requirements

· Projects must take place within the artist’s county of residence

· Projects must prioritize artistic creation, research, development, or career advancement

· Must include a public-facing program or clearly defined community engagement activity

Examples of Eligible Projects

· Creation of a new body of work

· Research and development for future projects

· Studio-based work paired with a public artist talk or workshop

· Community collaboration integrated into an individual artistic practice

SCR Funds May Support

· Artist time and labor

· Materials and supplies required for creation

· Documentation, promotion, or presentation costs

· Project-related travel within the region

· Short-term tools or software essential to completing the work

  

Budget Guidelines (All Categories)

Budgets must reflect costs that are directly related to the proposed project and necessary for its successful completion. Budgets should be clear, realistic, and aligned with the project description.

Eligible Expenses

· Artist, performer, or teaching artist fees and stipends

· Marketing, publicity, and audience outreach expenses

· Direct project-related administrative or coordination costs

· Consumable supplies and materials

· Short-term software, subscriptions, or tools essential to the project

Individual equipment or software items may not exceed $1,000 and may not be retained for general organizational use.

Ineligible Expenses

· General operating or overhead expenses unrelated to the project

· Capital improvements or permanent equipment

· Fundraising activities, benefits, or events

· Cash prizes, scholarships, awards, or regranting to others

· Religious, therapeutic, or recreational programs

· Payments made directly to minors

  

Evaluation & Review Process

Applications are reviewed by a peer panel of artists, arts administrators, educators, and community members. Panelists evaluate applications based on:

· Artistic merit and quality of work

· Community benefit and access

· Feasibility and clarity of the proposed project

· Applicant capacity to complete the project

Funding recommendations are based on panel scores, available funds, and local priorities.

  

Post-Award Responsibilities

Awardees must:

· Carry out the project as approved

· Credit NYSCA and ACCR in all promotional materials

· Notify ACCR in advance of any proposed project changes

· Submit a final report within 30 days of project completion

Failure to meet these requirements may affect future eligibility.

  

Appeals Process

Appeals must be submitted within ten (10) days of award notification and must be based on:

1. Procedural error

2. Misrepresentation of information

3. Conflict of interest or bias

Funding decisions may not be appealed solely on the basis of dissatisfaction.

  

Which Category Should I Apply To?

Applicants should choose the category that best reflects the primary purpose of the project.

Community Arts Grants are appropriate if the project is open to the general public and prioritizes public access and engagement.

Arts Education Grants are appropriate if the project serves a closed group of learners through sequential instruction.

Individual Artist Grants are appropriate if the applicant is an individual artist seeking support for creative or professional development with one community engagement component.

Applicants unsure of category fit are encouraged to contact ACCR prior to applying.

  

 

 

 

Appendix A: Application Materials & Readiness Guide

This appendix supports applicant preparedness and clarifies submission requirements.

Project Readiness Checklist

Applicants should be able to confirm that:

· The project has a clearly defined goal and scope

· The project takes place within the eligible counties

· The project fits one SCR category

· Required partners and fiscal sponsors are confirmed

· The timeline fits the SCR project period

· The budget includes only project-specific costs

Application Materials Checklist

Required for All Applicants

· Completed online application

· Project description and timeline

· Target audience or community description

· Project budget

· Work samples (as applicable)

Additional for Organizations

· Proof of nonprofit or governmental status

· Current NYS Charities filing (if applicable)

· Board list and key personnel

· Most recent financial statement

Additional for Individual Artists

· Proof of residency

· Resume or brief biography

Applying with a Fiscal Sponsor

Artists or collectives without nonprofit status may apply through a fiscal sponsor. A signed agreement outlining roles and responsibilities is required. Fiscal sponsors must be New York State–based nonprofits in good standing and will receive and manage funds on behalf of the applicant.

SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS Checklists available in applications

Supplemental Files Checklist (INDIVUDUAL ARTIST)

· Proof of NYS residency (see guidelines for a list of acceptable documents)

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved.

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures etc. or other support materials to help the panel better understand your Arts Programming history and needs

Supplemental Files Checklist (COMMUNITY ARTS)

· Proof of non-profit status 

• Letter       of Determination from the IRS indicating tax exempt status under       501(c)(3). 
• Documentation       of charter by the NY State Board of Regents under 216 of the NYS       Education Law
• Current       NY State Bureau of Charities (Office of the Attorney General) filing       receipt. 
• Official       authorization as an arm of local government (i.e. formal letter on       official stationery signed by appropriate county, city, town, or village       executive).

· If working with a fiscal sponsor: an agreement between artist(s) and sponsor

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of relevant artists and professionals involved

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· Pertinent supplementary material such as news articles, flyers, brochures to help the panel better understand your programming history

· Letter of Agreement between the participating artist(s) and applicant (FOR DIRECT NON-PROFIT USE ONLY)

· A list of the organization's Board of Directors

· The organization's last complete year's financial statement

Supplemental Files Upload Checklist (Arts Education)

· Proof of non-profit status (see guidelines)

· Letter of Commitment between artist(s) and School or artist(s) and Community-based Organization

· List of major artistic and administrative personnel associated with the project

· Resumes of participating artists

· Representative sample(s) of artist(s) work from the last 3 years

· List of Board of Directors

· Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement (if working with a fiscal sponsor)

  

Support & Technical Assistance

Technical assistance is available by appointment and is strongly encouraged.

Contact: Grants@artscenteronline.org

  

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature

 

Quick Guide for Completing Your Arts Thrive and Grow Report

Deadline: January 30, 2026

Before you fill out your report, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:

1. Know Your Grant Type

•  If you received an individual artist grant, it’s completely fine to list “0” for youth, audience, or community engagement if those were not part of your project.
   
•  Community-based grants should reflect who benefited—estimate if exact counts aren't possible.
   

2. Whole Numbers Only

•  For questions like:
   
  •  Number of Artists Participating
     
  •  Number of Youth Benefiting
     
  •  Number of Individuals Benefiting
    Enter whole numbers only, no commas or decimals.
     

   

3. It’s Okay to Say “None”

•  If a category doesn’t apply to your project, just put “0.”
  This won’t negatively affect your report—it just helps us understand the impact clearly.
   

4. Be Honest About Changes

•  If your project changed from the original plan or budget, that’s okay—just explain briefly in the space provided.
   

5. Final Tips

•  Make sure your organization or artist name matches what we have on file.
   
•  Be sure to use your current address and double-check your NYS Senate and Assembly Districts using the links in the form.

5. Images + Documents

•  You are not required to upload images, video files, or sound files as part of your report.