Please note: Due to feedback from the field, the CAC is closing the current grant opportunity for Administering Organization – Arts and Accessibility to clarify applicant eligibility, requirements, and review criteria. A newly revised release of the funding opportunity and guidelines will reopen on Friday, May 27. Application submission deadlines will be extended accordingly, from June 16 to June 23. -California Arts Council
Background & Purpose
The Arts and Accessibility program enhances opportunities for participation in the arts by people with disabilities. Grants for individual artists with disabilities are intended to support the advancement of their creative work and careers. Artists may request support for specific projects that contribute directly to their professional goals and development. California-based arts organizations may request support for the hiring or involvement of artists with disabilities in arts events, and/or to increase the attendance and enhance the experience for audiences with disabilities.
Eligible Request Amounts
Up to $500,000
Funding Restrictions
Applying for the Arts and Accessibility Administering Organization grant does not restrict an organization from applying for other CAC grants.
Matching Funds
This program does not require matching funds.
Application Links:
Online Application Portal: calartscouncil.smartsimple.com
Guidelines – revise coming 5/27
Guidelines in Spanish – coming soon
Program Timeline:
| Guidelines Published | April 28, 2022 / *Revised* May 27, 2022 |
| Application Opens | April 28, 2022 |
| Application Deadline | June 23, 2022, 11:59 PM |
| Panel Review | Approx. June – July 2022 |
| Funding Decision | Approx. July 2022 |
| Funding Notification | Approx. August 2022 |
| Grant Activity Period | Jan 1, 2023 – Dec 31, 2023 |
| Final Report Deadline | January 31, 2024 |
Staff Assistance
IMPORTANT: Please read the grant guidelines, application instructions, and grant applicant FAQs before contacting staff.
Before contacting staff, check FAQs to see if application questions can be answered. If staff assistance is still required for guidance or clarification, email is the best way to contact Program Specialists. We recommend that you contact staff well in advance of the deadline to ensure you can be accommodated. People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind, or have difficulty speaking may dial 711 to reach the California Relay Service (CRS). Large print is available upon request.
Staff Contact:
Amy Garrett (she/her/hers)
Arts Program Specialist
accessibilitygrant@arts.ca.gov
