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Creative Accelerator Fund
General Information
The Creative Accelerator Fund (CAF) provides holistic support to Illinois artists. A primary goal of the program is to bolster a creative workforce that composes a significant portion of Illinois’ creative and economic activity.
IAC anticipates two application cycles/deadlines each fiscal year. This may change when the FY25 state budget is confirmed.
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Eligibility Requirements
At the time of application, individual applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Certify that they are:
- A U.S. citizen or have been granted permanent resident alien status.
- Currently and have been a legal resident of the state of Illinois for at least 12 months prior to the application deadline.
- Submit a copy of one of the following:
- A valid Illinois driver’s license which includes the date issued and expiration date (entire front and back).
- A valid State of Illinois identification card which includes the date issued and expiration date; (entire front and back).
- NOT be enrolled in any degree or certificate granting program (including high school, bachelor, or masters-degree programs) at the time of application or during the award period. (Ph.D. candidates need to have completed their course work by the application deadline to be eligible.)
- Apply utilizing a Salesforce account registered to the applicant.
Timeline
TBD
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply?
At the time of application, individual applicants must:
- Meet Eligibility Requirements as described above.
- Submit no more than one application to the CAF Program per funding cycle.
- Apply utilizing a Salesforce account registered to the applicant.
- Submit all requested application materials.
- Due to the high number of anticipated applications, the initial review of the application’s eligibility will be strictly enforced.
Who is not eligible to apply?
- Individuals enrolled in any degree or certificate granting program (including high school, bachelor, or masters-degree programs) at the time of application or during the award period. (Ph.D. candidates need to have completed their course work by the application deadline to be eligible.)
- Organizations or schools. This award is for individuals only.
Is the CAF grant taxable?
Yes. The Internal Revenue Code provides that the full amount of the CAF is taxable to the recipient.
