BALTIMORE, Md. — The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) has announced the opening of its 2025 Grants for Artists program, designed to provide financial support for Maryland artists’ working or living expenses. The program focuses on offering holistic support to artists, rather than funding specific projects or products, with the goal of fostering artistic growth and strengthening Maryland’s creative workforce.
Grants of $2,500 will be awarded to selected artists through a randomized selection process, ensuring an equal opportunity for all eligible applicants. Applications are now open and must be submitted by Jan. 17, 2025, through the SmartSimple platform at marylandarts.smartsimple.com.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Grants for Artists program, applicants must:
- Be Maryland residents aged 18 or older.
- Engage in consistent, independent creative practices.
Applicants are ineligible if they are:
- Enrolled in high school, undergraduate, or graduate degree programs.
- Recipients of a Grants for Artists award in the most recent funding cycle.
Application Process
Applicants will need to provide details about their residency, educational status, artistic practices, and how they intend to use the funds. Eligible expenses include administrative costs, housing, studio expenses, marketing, equipment rentals, and more. A full list of eligible expenses can be found in the program guidelines on MSAC’s website at msac.org.
Applications are reviewed by MSAC staff to confirm eligibility.
Grant Disbursement and Reporting
Selected grantees will receive a formal Grant Agreement Form to process payments, which are distributed in one installment approximately 6-8 weeks after the agreement is finalized. Funds must be used during MSAC’s fiscal year 2025, running from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
Grantees are required to submit a Final Report upon the completion of the support period. Detailed reporting requirements are available in the program guidelines.
Contact and Support
Artists with questions about the program or application process are encouraged to contact MSAC staff for assistance. For complete details, including staff contact information and grant guidelines, visit msac.org/programs/grants-artists.
This program represents MSAC’s commitment to sustaining the creative workforce, a vital component of Maryland’s economy and cultural identity.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
