Organizer Information:

The Luminarts Cultural Foundation identifies, amplifies, and invests in exemplary emerging artists to ensure Chicago has a vibrant and sustainable cultural infrastructure. Through their Project Grant program, they support Fellows in developing creative work that impacts their individual craft while benefiting the Chicago region.

Title & Description:

Spring 2026 Project Grants

These grants support Luminarts Fellows in realizing artistic projects that advance their professional and personal goals. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the Chicago region, such as involving local artists, being available for public experience in Chicago, or featuring Chicago-related themes.

Note: This is a competitive grant designed to address funding gaps for early-career artists.

Eligibility:

  • Fellow Status: Must be a Luminarts Fellow awarded in 2016 or later.

  • Financial Cap: Fellows are eligible for up to $15,000 total in project grant support within 10 years of their fellowship.

  • Frequency: Fellows may receive funding only once per 12-month period. (If you received a grant in October 2025, you are ineligible for this cycle).

  • Legal Status: Must have a valid US Social Security Number.

Category

Multidisciplinary (Visual Arts, Performance, Writing, Music, etc.)

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Grant Amount: Up to $5,000 per grant cycle.

  • Cost Coverage: The request cannot exceed 50% of the total project budget.

  • Usage: Funds support the realization of an artist's evolving vision. Equipment purchases are only considered if part of a larger project.

Application Fee:

Free

Application Requirements:

  • Proposal: Clear description of the project, its artistic merit, and how it advances professional goals.

  • Impact Statement: Explanation of how the project benefits the Chicago region (e.g., hiring local talent, public showings).

  • Budget: Realistic cost estimates. (Grant covers max 50% of total).

  • Timeline: Feasible plan for completion by April 1, 2027.

  • Consultation: Discussion with Luminarts staff prior to submission is encouraged but not required.

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: March 15, 2026 (11:59 PM CT).

  • Notification Date: May 4, 2026.

  • Grant Agreement: Sent May 11, 2026.

  • Funds Disbursement: May 29, 2026.

  • Project Completion Deadline: April 1, 2027.

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted online via the Luminarts Submittable portal.

Location:

Chicago, IL / Flexible (Applicants do not need to live in Chicago, but the project must demonstrate a direct benefit to the Chicago region).

Additional Details:

The review panel scores applications based on Project Feasibility (25%), Impact on Applicant (25%), Impact on Community (25%), and Artistic Merit (25%). Projects with confirmed funding from other sources or well-planned timelines are more likely to be funded.

Contact Information:

Website: www.luminarts.org

Email: alex@luminarts.org (Alex Benjamin, Program Director)