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    Apply for a Creative Catalyst Grant

    Creative Catalyst grants support new initiatives and opportunities that advance strategies for strengthening the cultural, educational, or economic vitality of Pennsylvania’s communities through the arts.

    Contact the PCA
    Apply (PDF)

    Overview

    Creative Catalyst is a grant program of Pennsylvania Creative Industries, powered by Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA), that supports new initiatives and opportunities that advance strategies for empowering, connecting, and amplifying creatives and creative industries and their contributions to Pennsylvania’s communities, economy, and workforce.

     Creative Catalyst applications will be assessed based on the degree to which they:

    1.) Align with one or more of Pennsylvania Creative Industries’ five areas of opportunity:

    • Asset Development
    • Workforce Development
    • Community Development
    • Visibility
    • Policy

    2.) Demonstrate statewide reach and benefit.

    3.) Demonstrate capacity to carry out project as proposed.

    Please note: 
    • Typical grant amounts are between $5,000 and $10,000.
    • No more than 20% of the grant award may be used for administrative expenses.
    • A 1:1 cash match is required.
    • Organizations can receive a Creative Catalyst grant once every three years.
    • Please note that this funding opportunity is NOT designed to support established programs, ongoing operations, or provide an annual source of funds. For those types of applications/projects, please contact the PCA for more information.

    How to Apply for a Creative Catalyst Grant

    1.) Read the program guidelines thoroughly.

    2.) Before applying, contact Jamie Dunlap at jadunlap@pa.gov or (717) 525-5542.

    3.) Register and apply through the grants.pa.gov platform.

    • Creative Catalyst applicants will be asked to provide the following information:
      • Provide a summary of the proposed project.
      • How does the proposed project align with one or more of Pennsylvania Creative Industries’ five areas of opportunity?
      • What is the project’s statewide reach and benefit to the creative sector?
      • Describe the applicant’s capacity to carry out the project as proposed.
      • How will the funds be used if awarded?

    Eligibility requirements for Creative Catalyst Grants

     
    To apply for Creative Catalyst funding, organizations must be one of the following:
    • Applicants must be a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation, unit of government; college or university; or school district providing creative sector programming and/or services in Pennsylvania.
      • Organizations are required to provide proof of incorporation and activity in Pennsylvania before applications are reviewed or funds awarded.
    • Fiscal agents and fiscal sponsors are not eligible to apply for Creative Catalyst funding.