The 2027 Manhattan Arts Grants application guidelines and application forms for LMCC’s annual grant programs are now available. We invite Manhattan-based individual artists, collectives, and non-profit organizations working across all artistic disciplines, backgrounds and neighborhoods to apply for project support to bring their 2027 projects to life.
2027 Grant Cycle Timeline
For All Manhattan Arts Grants Programs
| Applications open | September 8, 2026 |
| Applicant support available | September 8 - November 12, 2026 |
| Application deadline | November 12, 2026, 6pm EST |
| Deadline to provide edits, if requested | January 4, 2027 |
| Panel review and Board approvals | January - March 2027 |
| Notification of results | April 5, 2027 |
| Feedback available for declined applicants | July 2027 |
What's new in 2027?
- We’ve added a new funding opportunity! The Creative Unrestricted program provides two years of general operating support for artists and nonprofit organizations with budgets under $250,000 creating new work in the performing arts. Learn more about it below!
- Application requirements and guidelines have been streamlined. You can preview applications now on each program’s page: Creative Engagement, UMEZ Arts Engagement, Creative Learning, and Creative Unrestricted.
- We’ve added a short eligibility quiz at the beginning of the application. This is meant to help you verify that you meet the requirements before going to the trouble of creating an application.
- You will be automatically considered for every available funding source based on what you enter in the application. No more need to memorize each partner’s specific requirements.
- Program Guidelines and FAQs are accessible in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese; however, live communications, information sessions, and the application are conducted exclusively in English.
What's the same?
- All of LMCC’s grant programs have options to fund Manhattan-based individual artists, collectives/groups/ensembles, and nonprofit organizations directly.
- Applicant support includes virtual Information Sessions, in-person Applicant Labs, and virtual Office Hours to provide technical assistance and get your questions answered.
Which program is right for your work?
Please Note: All applicants must choose one of three tracks: Project Funding (Creative Engagement, UMEZ Arts Engagement), Arts Education Program Funding (Creative Learning), or General Operating Funding (Creative Unrestricted). Check eligibility requirements for each program before applying.
Nominate a Panelist
Interested in serving as a 2027 grant panelist or nominating someone else for the role? Please complete this form. We welcome submissions year-round!
Recommendations for LMCC's Manhattan Arts Grants are made through a panel selection process designed to ensure projects are funded based on their ability to address the program's criteria. LMCC is committed to convening panelists whose expertise and backgrounds reflect the cultural and creative diversity of the applicant pool, including artistic genre and form, racial, ethnic and cultural background. Panels include artists, cultural workers, and arts professionals with knowledge and familiarity of Manhattan’s neighborhoods and communities.
