The National Endowment for the Arts (Arts Endowment) is the independent federal agency whose funding and support gives Americans the opportunity to participate in the arts, exercise their imaginations, and develop their creative capacities. The Arts Endowment is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and fostering mutual respect for the diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities. On June 23, 2021, the National Endowment for the Arts released guidelines and application materials for a grant program to distribute American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to support organizations and jobs in the arts and culture sector that have been impacted by the pandemic. This grant opportunity is open to nonprofit arts and culture organizations, regardless of whether they have received Arts Endowment funding in the past. HBCUs can apply for a grant to support day-to-day business expenses or operating costs related to arts programs or arts services provided. Unlike other Arts Endowment funding programs that offer project-based support, Rescue Plan funds are intended to support specific operating costs only. Cost share/matching funds are not required. In a webinar on July 21, hosted by the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Arts Endowment staff will provide an overview of the American Rescue Plan Grant Opportunity and share information on eligibility, how to apply, tips for your application, and will leave time for questions and answers.
