Creative District Development Grant - Nebraska Arts Council

Overview

The Creative District Development Grant provides funds to Creative Districts of Nebraska for projects that focus on significant cultural tourism and economic development.

Eligible Projects

• Construction: building, renovation, and/or expansion of existing buildings
• Marketing: promotion of the district including website, branding, signage, and wayfinding
• Operational Support: organizational support for management and operations of the district (designated District Administrator organizations only)
• Physical Enhancements: improvements to accessibility, attractiveness, cohesion, and safety for visitors
• Planning: strategic planning and technical studies related to development or rehabilitation of eligible projects
• Programming: high-quality arts programming to attract significant numbers of visitors

Eligibility

Applicants must be a nonprofit or local government agency serving as the District Administrator for a certified Creative District. The applicant must have a minimum $10,000 annual operating budget; be an incorporated nonprofit physically located in Nebraska with current articles of incorporation on file in the Nebraska Secretary of State's office, or a subdivision of government; have a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) and Federal Unique Entity Identifier Number (UEI); and have received federal tax-exempt status. Divisions of government must submit a copy of the sales tax exemption certificate from the State Department of Revenue. Priority will be given to organizations in districts that have not received a Creative District Development Grant in the past.

Grant Amounts

The maximum grant request is $100,000. There is no minimum amount. The grant request does not require a cash match. Grant funds must be expended within two years after the funds are awarded.

Key Dates

• November 1: Applications due for projects starting on or after March 1 of the following year
• January: Review panel held
• July 1: Projects must start on or after this date

Application Requirements

Applicants must apply through NAC's online grant system at www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov/grants/. All certified districts will receive an access code to use when applying. If you have not received NAC funding in the last two years, you will need to create an account. The application requires a Project Narrative that addresses visitor impact, likelihood of enhancing attractions and increasing visitor potential, economic impact including job creation, impact on arts and creative industries, retention impact, and new resident impact.

Contact

For questions or to request an access code resent, contact Rachel Morgan or NAC staff at [email protected].