Agencies
Services
Opportunities for Artists
IAC Grants for Artists
Guidelines released: June 2026
Opens: July 1, 2026
Deadline: Open Deadline with funds administered regionally
Creative Project Grant (CPG) supports art projects with a public release or presentation for Illinois artists, eligible not-for-profit organizations, municipal entities, or colleges and universities.
Opens: September 2026
Deadline: October 2026
The Illinois Arts Council’s (IAC) Creative Accelerator Fund (CAF) provides crucial support to artists with a goal of strengthening the creative workforce that composes a significant portion of Illinois’ economic activity.
Additional State Funding & Other Opportunities
At IL250.org, individuals and organizations can sign up to become a promotional partner, establish an IL250 community, submit events to the local and national calendar, and access resources.
Join a statewide commemoration of the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026. Stay tuned for more information and program announcements from Illinois Humanities. Questions? Email IL250@ilhumanities.org.
Open
The Illinois Performing Artist Index, is a new statewide resource that showcases Illinois performing artists and makes it easier for presenters, venues, and event organizers to discover local talent. The Illinois Artist Index will replace the previous Artstour Roster. Registration is free and only takes about ten minutes.
Deadline: August 9, 2026
NEIU's Art + Design Visiting Artist Program provides two residency options each semester for Chicago-based artists: the Studio Residency and RISO Residency. Artists receive an honorarium and semester-long facility access for their projects. Residents showcase their work publicly, conduct workshops, participate in Portfolio Review Day, and feature in a group exhibition at the NEIU Fine Arts Center Gallery.
Deadline: August 18 2026
Applications are now open for the Midwest Culture Bearers Award!
Every community has people who carry its stories, teachings, and creative practices forward to ensure cultural knowledge remains alive and accessible for future generations. The 2026 Midwest Culture Bearers Award is now open and looking to support those people!
Each culture bearer will receive an unrestricted, non-matching award of $5,000 to support their work and have access to professional development and storytelling opportunities.
Additional Resources for Artists
Search for additional state and national resources for organizations through the IAC's Discipline-Specific Resources database.
Announcements for Artists
Connect with Us
