About the Open Call

South Arts' Artist Creative Practice Grants, formerly Individual Artist Career Opportunity Grants, are designed to foster professional development and career growth for artists in the South Arts region. These grants support a wide array of milestone activities, including residencies, apprenticeships, conference participation, creative entrepreneurship initiatives, opportunities to present, produce, perform, exhibit, screen, or sell work, and artistic research. The program aims to make these valuable career-enhancing opportunities accessible by providing financial support, recognizing that artists face significant expenses. South Arts is committed to supporting artists regardless of their background or economic status, ensuring equitable access to funding. The grant cycle runs from November 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, with rolling reviews for applications.

What is Offered

Grants up to $3,000 are available, paying up to 2/3 of the total cost of the opportunity, with a $500 minimum award. Up to 15 grants are expected to be awarded. Grant funds will be disbursed as 75% upon acceptance and 25% upon satisfactory final report review.

Requirements

Applicant must be an individual professional-caliber working artist in an eligible discipline (dance, music, opera/musical theatre, theatre, visual arts, crafts, photography, design arts, media arts, vernacular/folk/traditional art, literature, time-based arts, public art). Must be 18 years or older, a legal resident of the United States and the South Arts region (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Tennessee), and maintain residency during the award period. Applicants must not be degree-seeking students during the grant period. Only one application per funding cycle for one activity is permitted, and individuals cannot re-apply for four funding cycles after receiving an award.

How to Apply

Submit a complete and accurate application using the South Arts’ SalesForce portal at https://southarts.my.salesforce.com/. Required components include Narrative Responses, Evidence of invitation/Other evidence that legitimates the proposed activity, a Budget (demonstrating a 2:1 match of South Arts funds to artist funds), up to 3 Work Samples, a Resumé or Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages), and online certification. Applicants must also include 3-5 links to relevant websites.