AFTSA

Artwork by Bianca Koraima Lupian.

Recently, the Arts Foundation for Tucson and southern Arizona was awarded a half-million dollar grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

Adriana Gallego, executive director for the foundation, said it was one of the few local agencies across the U.S. to receive the full amount.

“At last count, there’s about 4,500 local arts agencies nationally and we’re one of only 24 that got the full $500,000. I think there were 66 grantees total,” she said. 

Those hoping to apply for grants must be a registered nonprofit arts and culture organization in southern Arizona or an individual proposing to do contract work for one of those groups.

Gallego said individual artists can apply for up to $2,500 by connecting with a community nonprofit or government body.

“Let’s say an artist is a really good graphic designer and they connect with the YWCA to produce their marketing materials. That artist can apply for a grant to deliver design goods and everybody wins," Gallego said. 

After a final report on the deliverables is provided that artist’s profile is then included in the foundation’s arts and culture directory, which certifies their validity as a business service provider and bolsters their profile for other prospective clients.

The money awarded by the NEA comes from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. 

“The NEA’s significant investment in local arts agencies, including the Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona, is a key element in helping the arts and culture sector recover and reopen, while ensuring that American Rescue Plan funding is distributed equitably,” said Ann Eilers, NEA’s acting chair, in a separate press release. “These grants recognize the vital role of local arts agencies and will allow them to help rebuild local economies and contribute to the well-being of our communities.”

Specific details about applying for grants can be found at the foundation’s website, by emailing or calling (520) 624-0595.