Even with the economy reopening, artists of all types are still reeling from a year of canceled performances and exhibitions. And though Zoom and Twitch events have allowed them to connect with their communities and attract new, global audiences, presenting online doesnât feel the same or have the same financial payoff.
For artists struggling to meet basic needs, weâve rounded up a list of grants that are still taking applications. Some are for hundreds of dollars and meant to cover immediate emergencies, while others offer more substantial support. And for those looking to help, many of these funds are accepting donations.
The Actors Fund This fund provides emergency financial support for union and non-union entertainers and performing artists. Individuals with less than $15,000 in savings and couples with less than $30,000 can apply, and documentation is required.
Artist Relief $5,000 Artist Relief grants are available for practicing artists ages 18 and over who are experiencing financial emergencies and need help covering rent, medical expenses or food. Applications for the 11th round of funding are open through June 23.
The Artistsâ Fellowship Visual artists who can provide documentation that they make a living through their art can apply to Artistsâ Fellowship grants for financial emergencies. Applications are reviewed at the beginning of every month except for July and August.
Arts and Culture Leaders of Color Emergency Funds These are microgrants of $200 for artists and arts administrators who are people of color.
American Society of Journalists and Authors These grants for freelance journalists and authors are for those who are currently ill or caring for someone who is, and require proof of published writing and medical and financial documentation.
Authors League Fund This fund provides financial support for authors, journalists, critics, poets and other writers whoâve lost income because of the pandemic. Older people and people with medical issues are given priority.
The Blues Foundation HART Fund The HART Fund offers financial assistance for health-related expenses, and blues musicians can call or email directly to apply.
California Jazz FoundationCalifornia jazz musicians with five or more years in the industry can apply to have specific bills and expenses covered. Financial documentation is required, and applicants must call or email directly to apply.
CERF+ Emergency Assistance Artists working in glass, clay, metal, wood and other craft mediums can apply for financial aid for COVID-19-related medical expenses.
Dramaturgists Guild Foundation Grant Playwrights, librettists and other writers in the world of theater can apply for emergency assistance for basic living expenses.
Foundation for Contemporary Arts Artists whoâve had exhibitions and performances canceled can apply for $2,000 grants.
MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund The Recording Academyâs MusiCares fund assists musicians and industry professionals, and prioritizes those experiencing medical, dental, mental health, insurance, substance abuse or eviction emergencies.
Music Health Alliance Music Health Alliance can cover up to $500 of emergency bills for two months for music professionals. These grants are for food, rent and medical costs.
Native Americans in Entertainment COVID Relief Fund These grants of $2,000 are available to Native American writers, actors, directors and other entertainment industry professionals whoâve lost work during the pandemic. The funds can be used to cover medical care, moving expenses, childcare, groceries, rent, utilities and more.
Sweet Relief Fund Musicians and music workers can apply for emergency grants of up to $400 for medical and living expenses, and Sweet Relief offers a toolkit to help you fundraise for yourself and your community.
Zellerbach Family Foundation COVID Response Grant The Zellerbach Foundation is awarding grants of $5,000, $10,000 and $15,000 to artists in Alameda, Contra Costa and San Francisco counties who either need financial aid for pandemic income loss or support around recovery and reopening. The next application cycle is Sept. 6â20, and there will be another one Dec. 6â20.
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