Newark-based artists and artist collectives are welcome to apply. To be eligible to submit a proposal, applicants must be 18 or over and currently living or working in Newark, NJ, or engaged in a current artistic practice in Newark, NJ. Applicants must show evidence of

• Currently living or working in Newark, which may be accomplished by submitting (i) an active home or studio lease, (ii) a current utility bill, or (iii) a current letter of employment.

• Engagement in a current artistic practice in Newark, which may be accomplished by submitting a letter of reference from a Newark arts organization or gallery confirming the applicant’s artistic practice in Newark.

Employees of Project for Empty Space, Inc. are not eligible to apply.

Past grantees may receive the award for up to two consecutive years, after which they must take a one-year break before reapplying.

Project-Based Grants:

• Artist Biography and Curriculum Vitae

• Project Proposal and Statement of Impact

• Project Timeline

• Project Budget

• A Minimum of One (1) Letter of Recommendation

Projects may include artist-led collaborative ventures, pop-up exhibitions, events, and interventions of an ephemeral nature that are radically accessible to public audiences. 

They may not include:

• Projects initiated or organized by existing incorporated entities (includes LLC’s B Corps, 501(C)(3) organizations, and 501(c)(4) organizations), universities or schools (private, public, charter), or religious institutions.

• Projects seeking support retroactively or seeking reimbursement for a past project.

• Proposals for funding to support a solo exhibition, travel costs, etc.

• Projects proposed by an individual artist to present their own work.

Check out our 2024 and 2025 project-based grantees to get your wheels spinning.

The application will be distributed via Submittable.

Project-based grants will be awarded in the amounts of $2,500, $5,000, and $7,500.

Project-based grants will be selected by a jury of local arts professionals.

All applicants will be notified by the end of the year.

Selected artists will be paid via ACH or Paper Check.

Join us for an information session about the Newark Artist Accelerator fund on Wednesday, August 20, 4pm.

Register here: 2025naainfosession.eventbrite.com

Hear from the team about previously funded projects and best submission practices. This is a great opportunity to get questions answered prior to submitting a proposal.

To send questions ahead of time, please email info@newarkartistaccelerator.org