Build Tulsa’s creative future: Apply now for $5,000 arts funding

Two organizations are teaming up to support Tulsa’s creative future — and applications are now open for a new initiative that offers up to $5,000 per project to support artists and creative nonprofits.

The Tulsa Arts and Humanities Council, in partnership with the Tulsa Community Foundation, has launched a new grant initiative aimed at funding local art and humanities projects. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for eligible nonprofits and artists, with the application deadline set for Aug. 30.

Here’s how the initiative works and what local artists need to know.

Who’s eligible for the funding?

The grant is open to any nonprofit in the arts or humanities, as well as individual artists who are fiscally sponsored by a qualifying 501(c)(3) organization. Organizers say the goal is to ensure funds are accessible to a wide range of creative professionals.

“We’re hoping this money touches multiple areas of the arts and humanities in Tulsa,” said Jason Cleary with the Tulsa Arts and Humanities Council. “If that happens, we’ve done our job.”

How much funding is available?

Grants of up to $5,000 are available per project. The money can be used across a variety of mediums — from public art to education and even programming in libraries or museums.

According to the council, funds can be used at the discretion of recipients to help grow or support their work.

Why this matters for Tulsa

Organizers say the program is not just about individual projects — it’s about building a creative future for the city.

“You walk down an area like the Tulsa Arts District and you feel something,” Cleary said. “It brings a connection to its residents and the city that we love.”

The organizations behind the grant want to continue investing in that sense of identity and culture through consistent, annual support.

How to apply

Applications are open now through August 30 on the Tulsa Community Foundation website. Funds are expected to be distributed starting in October.

The council encourages applicants to reapply in the future if they are not selected this year.