Newark Nonprofit Offers Local Artists ‘Mini Grants’ Up To $3K

NEWARK, NJ — Do you have an idea for an art project in Newark that just needs a little bit of cash to get off the ground? A local nonprofit may have just the opportunity, it says.

Last week, Newark Arts announced that its seeking applications for its annual mini grant program, ArtsStart, which awards local artists, groups and schools with grants up to $3,000 to create music, dance, theater, film and visual/literary art projects that benefit the Brick City.

Applications will open on Monday, Jan. 25. Learn more here, or get more information by emailing or email heather@newarkarts.org

An ArtStart Information Session will be held via Zoom on Saturday, Jan. 16. This orientation session is mandatory for first time applicants, and will be recorded. To RSVP, visit newarkarts.org/artstart/.

The grants are even more important to local artists amid the coronavirus pandemic, the nonprofit says.

“Thanks to the generosity of Newark Arts’ supporters, we’re pleased to provide ArtStart funding for the second time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Newark Arts Executive Director Jeremy Johnson said.

“We’ve streamlined the application to make it even more accessible to diverse arts groups and artists who are enriching communities across Newark,” Johnson said.

According to a news release from Newark Arts:

“ArtStart was established in 2001, with the mission to nurture arts and cultural activities throughout the city of Newark, especially for youth and under-served populations. Since its inception, Newark Arts has made over 200 ArtStart grants, totaling more than $500,000. ArtStart has funded schools of music and dance, local galleries, film and book projects, programs for children and seniors, and multidisciplinary community initiatives including neighborhood development plans.”

Funding for ArtStart has been provided by Prudential Foundation, the New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund, NJCARES Act Funding via NJSCA, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, NJ State Council on the Arts, Turrell Fund, Bank of America, and M&T Bank.

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This story is part of Patch's Headlining Hope series, which profiles local nonprofits and charitable organizations in need of volunteers and resources. If you know about a local organization that should be profiled, contact eric.kiefer@patch.com.

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