Creative Catalyst Grant

Creative Catalyst Grants (CCG) are available to Illinois artists and non-profit organizations that have unique arts projects that need financial support.  If an organizational applicant receives GOS support, this project must be outside of regular operational need. 

IAC anticipates two application cycles/deadlines each fiscal year. This may change when the FY25 state budget is confirmed.

CCG funds are managed per region. Please check with your regional program director if you have questions on a potential project. 

Sign up here to be notified when this grant application opens. 

The Illinois Arts Council provides public funding to Illinois residents, not-for-profit, tax exempt (501c3) organizations, units of government, and institutions of higher education. Applicants must include proof of eligibility at the time of application. 

Organizational applicants must serve as one the following:

• A registered Not-For-Profit Organization
• Branch of Government (e.g., Municipal, County, Libraries, Park Districts, etc.)
  
• Charitable Trust
• Schools and Religious Organizations 
• PTOs, PTAs and other School Affiliate Organizations

Organizational applicants must:

• Have a valid FEIN and UEI number
• Be in good standing with the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State
• Apply utilizing a Salesforce account registered to the organizational applicant.

At the time of applications, 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.

What is considered outside of general operations?

GOS applicants must demonstrate that the project being applied for is “above and beyond” what the organization programs with standard operations. 

When can I get my money?

IAC does not issue checks directly. IAC vouchers payment authorizations through the state comptroller’s office. Grantees may check the state comptroller’s website for updates on their grant payments. Additionally, if an applicant has received a payment from the state within the past 12 months, they may call the state comptroller at (217) 557-0930 to request direct deposit. 

I did not submit my application on time, can I still apply?

IAC is unable to accept late application submissions.