Public Art Grants

Provides organizations and city, county, or tribal governments with up to
$20,000 for large-scale physical public art projects that will leave an arts
legacy in southwest MN. The project should result in sustainable arts
access in the community, with a continuing impact over several years.
20% cash match required.

Mosaic planters in downtown Granite Falls were created by local art students under the mentorship of artist Tamara Isfeld.

Dates & Deadlines for FY 2027

(July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)

Round 1

Request staff draft review by November 4, 2026
Application Deadline: November 18, 2026
Panel Review: December 10, 2026
Board Action: December 15, 2026
Results Notification: December 16-18, 2026
Earliest Project Start Date: January 1, 2027
Estimated Payment Date: January 15, 2027 (if contract completed)

Round 2 (if funds remain)

Request staff draft review by February 24, 2027
Application Deadline: March 10, 2027
Panel Review: April 1, 2027
Board Action: April 27, 2027
Results Notification: April 28-30, 2027
Earliest Project Start Date: May 1, 2027
Estimated Payment Date: May 15, 2027 (if contract completed)

How to Apply

Applicants may fill out and submit their application in several ways:

through our online grant system
in a Word document (see materials below), submitted by email to info@swmnarts.org, along with required attachments
on paper with required attachments, submitted by mail (PO Box 55, Marshall, MN 56258) or contact us to arrange drop-off.

Have questions or need help?

SW MN Arts Council grants administrator Caroline Koska is available to meet with you by phone, web conference or in person in Marshall to answer your questions on grant eligibility and using the application system or to review a draft of your application.