About the Open Call

The Creative Start Project Grant funds projects that integrate the arts to support learning for preschool to 3rd grade students. This one-year grant focuses on helping students grow creatively, academically, and emotionally, with a strong emphasis on equitable access to arts education. It encourages partnerships between educators, schools, families, teaching artists, and organizations to create inclusive and culturally responsive arts learning for students. Eligible projects must focus on sequential arts integration and be free for all participating students.

What is Offered

Grant awards of either $6,000 or $10,000. Funds can be used for project staff fees (artists, teaching artists), professional learning, travel, and materials (up to 25% of the request).

Requirements

Applicants must be based in Washington State and be a Head Start/ECEAP provider, public school or district, ESD, Tribal/State/Municipal government agency, or 501(c)(3) non-profit. Individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible. Projects must serve students in preschool through grade 3 and focus on sequential arts integration.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application through the online grant platform, Submittable, between January 5, 2026, and February 12, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. A registration link for an info session on January 22, 2026, is also available.