Project funding, mentoring available to ’emerging’ #SCArtists

FY27 Rd. 1 Emerging Artist grant applications open

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Thursday, May 14, 2026

The SCAC wants to support the artistic and career development of emerging South Carolina artists through grant funding as well as mentorship and professional support.

One way try to provide that is through the Emerging Artist program. Here are the goals of the of funding and mentorship combination:

• Deepen artistic practice.
• Encourage career growth.
• Foster artistic growth, relevance, and sustainability.
• Provide professional development and opportunities for collaboration.

Did you know?

Age is not a factor in determining an emerging artist. “Emerging artists” are defined as those who are at an early stage in their career development (specifically, artists who are starting their careers and have been active for one to five years).

More about the grant

The Emerging Artist grant is offered twice per year, and just opened to artists seeking project funding for the latter half of 2026.

Applications are open for artists to apply for funding of up to $1,800 to support a proposed artistic project. Acceptable project types include artwork creation, an exhibition, or arts instruction. Head to the program page for more on current and recent grantees and see some work samples.

In addition to the grant, grantees must attend virtual monthly meetings during the grant period (July 1-Dec. 31) to build relationships with one another, SCAC program staff, and arts professionals.