New Jumpstart Grant Opp Designed by Artists for Artists

Last year, the pandemic shut down the arts economy in Chatham County. No one really thought that one year later, we’d still be wading through the pandemic, waiting for life to go back to “normal.” Because artists and arts-workers have been hugely impacted by the pandemic, we launched the Chatham Artists and Arts-workers Relief Effort (CAARE) in 2002 to provide weekly emergency funding. Now, with the hope of light at the end of this tunnel, we are deeply excited to transition our emergency grants into a new phase of artist relief with the Jumpstart grant opportunity. Jumpstart is designed to help get Chatham County artists and arts-workers back to work with grants that pay artists to make art–and to put art in the public sphere as we re-connect with one another in our public spaces.

Jumpstart is generously funded by Manbites Dog Theater Fund and Mary Duke Biddle Foundation. Grants range from $250 to $1,000 for individual projects, and $500 to $2,500 for collaborative projects.

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty:

Who is eligible?

Performing, visual, or literary artists OR arts-workers living in Chatham County who have been financially impacted due to COVID-19 cancellations and closures are eligible for this grant. You can apply as an individual artist – or as a collaborative group.

What’s unique about this grant?

There are several cool features about this grant:

• All applicants will participate in a public sharing of their art in the fall.
• This grant combines support for artists–who still REALLY need it–with bringing art back into the public sphere in a COVID-safe way.
• At least 75% of each grant must be spent on artist fees. This allows you–the artist–to be paid for your time and experience, too.

When do I have to submit my application?

Applications are due by May 7.

Art connects us. It lifts our spirits. It provides an outlet for expression. It is something we all need. Through this Jumpstart grant, the CAC hopes to boost the talented artists in Chatham County, and enjoy seeing their art in the public sphere while we’re at it.

Learn more about this grant opportunity here.

CAC extends a special thank you for generously funding this grant to: