Arts and Youth

The Arts and Youth program is a grant opportunity provided by the CA Arts Council to expand meaningful arts participation and learning in diverse settings and contexts for infants, children, and youth ages 0-25. The program prioritizes programs that directly bridge barriers to access and participation. Eligible applicants include nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3), California organizations, units of municipal, county or Tribal governments, and fiscally sponsored organizations. The application deadline is 5/12/26, and the expected award announcement is on 9/26/2026. The program has a period of performance from 10/1/2026 to 9/30/2027. • The program aims to provide access to meaningful, culturally responsive arts experiences for youth. • The program seeks to address barriers to access, including socio-economic status, geographic isolation, gender identity, racial identity, cultural identity, digital divide, and disability. • Eligible applicants must have a principal place of business in California. • The total funding available will be determined based on the passage of the state budget and Council allocation priorities. • The funding method is through advances, and the grant guidelines can be found on the CA Arts Council website.