Organizer Information
Rbhu Engineering is a minority- and women-owned engineering company specializing in the structural engineering of large-scale artwork and entertainment structures. Founded by Selinda Martinez and Alireza Lahijanian, Rbhu works closely with artists to help transform ambitious concepts into safe, buildable structures while keeping engineering services accessible. Its Rbhu Gives Back program was launched in 2019 to provide pro-bono engineering support to artists who need technical assistance to realize their work.
Title & Description
Rbhu Gives Back 2026
Rbhu Gives Back 2026 offers structural engineering support to artists developing artwork that requires professional structural expertise. The program is open to art projects of any size and can provide services such as structural analysis, construction drawings, and permit documentation, depending on the needs of the project.
Rather than providing a traditional cash grant, Rbhu contributes professional engineering services that can help artists move a sculpture or large-scale installation from concept toward fabrication and installation. Artists may submit projects at an early development stage; the organization accepts anything from a simple sketch to a developed 3D model.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Sculpture
- Public Art
- Installation Art
- Large-Scale Art
- Architecture / Art & Architecture
- Interactive Art
- Site-Specific Art
Eligibility
Artists developing any artwork that requires structural engineering services may apply. The program does not state an age, gender, career-stage, or nationality restriction. Although Rbhu is licensed in several U.S. states, the organization specifically states that artists should not let their location prevent them from applying and is open to expanding its licensing reach, including outside the United States.
Applicants should be prepared to explain their experience with large-scale artwork and how the grant would benefit their project.
Program Benefits & Awards
A total of $12,000 worth of engineering services is available:
- 1 full pro bono project: up to $6,000 in free engineering services
- 2 projects: 50% discounted engineering services, with up to $3,000 in free services each
Potential services include structural analysis, construction drawings, and permit documents, depending on project requirements.
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 October 2026
- Selection & Notification: Before the end of 2026
Location
United States
Additional Details
Applicants should provide a visual concept, but it does not need to be fully developed. Accepted concept materials can include sketches, renderings, or 3D models. The application indicates preferred formats including PDF, JPEG, STL, OBJ, IGS, 3DM, and SKP, with additional upload options listed on the form.
Projects requiring confidentiality can be identified as confidential in the application. If an NDA is required, applicants may send it to rbhugivesback@rbhu.org. Rbhu also states that applicants' personal information will not be shared.