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2025 Illuminate the Arts Grant, Applications Open November 5, 2025

The Illuminate the Arts Grant (ITAG) is designed to strengthen and financially uplift Philadelphia’s creative sector, especially artists and organizations rooted in communities that have been historically underfunded or excluded from traditional sources of arts support.  

A total of $1.5M will be distributed to individual artists, small and mid-size arts organizations, and small creative enterprises across Philadelphia to recognize and sustain their creative practice, while expanding access to the arts in economically marginalized neighborhoods.

Established by Philadelphia City Council in 2021 to aid in the creative sector’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, ITAG continues to invest in Philadelphia’s cultural ecosystem—supporting artists and organizations whose work enhances the city’s vibrancy, resilience, and quality of life.  

The program is administered by Creative Philadelphia in collaboration with the Illuminate the Arts Grant Advisory Committee, ensuring that funds are distributed efficiently and equitably. Applications will be accepted November 5, 2025, at 11:00 AM – November 30, 2025, 11:59 PM.    

Apply on Submittable

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Who can apply?

The 2025 Illuminate the Arts Grant application process and eligibility requirements are uniquely geared to meet the needs of the local arts and culture community while providing relief quickly and efficiently. Applicants must be based in Philadelphia County. The 2025 grants will support:

• Individual artists with a 2024 total annual income of $66,850 or less can apply for a grant of $1,500-$2,000. Individual artists who claim dependents are eligible for higher maximum income limits and should visit the application once open to determine eligibility. Apply on Submittable

• Small nonprofit arts organizations with 2024 operating budgets of $100,000 or less can apply for grants ranging from $3,000-$5,000. Apply on Submittable

• Mid-size nonprofit arts organizations with 2024 operating budgets between $100,000-$500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000-$7,000. Apply on Submittable

• Small creative enterprises with 2024 operating budgets less than $500,000 can apply for grants ranging from $5,000-$7,000. Apply on Submittable

This will be a competitive grant with more eligible applicants than the $1.5M Illuminate the Arts Grant will be able to support. Applicants can submit only one request to the 2025 Illuminate the Arts Grant but are encouraged to apply for support through other funding available from local, state, and national levels. A list of other resources is available here.

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How do I apply?

Once applications open, eligible applicants can apply online through Submittable.

For assistance in completing the application through the online form, please email illuminatetheartsphl@gmail.com.

Language access support is available by request. Si no puede completar la solicitud a través del formulario en línea o necesita ayuda en español, envíe un correo electrónico a illuminatetheartsphl@gmail.com.

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Questions?

View the Frequently Asked Questions

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Community Info Session

Tuesday, October 28 · 6 – 8pm EDT

Gustine Recreation Center, 4868 Ridge Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19129

Join us at the Gustine Recreation Center for a community information session!

This in-person session is a great opportunity to:

• Learn more about the grant and eligibility requirements
• See a step-by-step walkthrough of the application process
• Ask questions and connect with the Creative Philadelphia team

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or returning grantee, this session will help you prepare for a successful submission.

RSVP

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