Call Description

This grant program supports innovative projects by artists and cultural arts organizations that showcase artistic and cultural diversity, community building, and an appreciation for the creative spirit through arts activities. All projects must end in a culminating event that is accessible to Bothell residents and visitors of Bothell, Washington.

Application Requirements

Grant awards are between $500 to $10,000 and projects must be completed by December 1, 2026. All grant recipients will be required to produce a public benefit as a culminating event for their project and submit a final report in order to secure awarded funds.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility – Who May Apply

• Individuals; such as independent artists seeking support for their art.
• Groups; such as neighborhood organizations, artistic and cultural organizations looking to add an artistic or cultural component to their activity.
• IRS not-for-profit status – 501 (c)(3) - is not required.
• You do not have to be a Bothell resident to apply; however, your public event must benefit Bothell residents.
• A City of Bothell business license may be required.

Grant Funds may be used for:

• Artistic performances such as theatre, music, original readings, or dance.
• Improved arts and cultural opportunities for artists and audiences for and from diverse communities.
• Equipment used for public benefit such as 2D art hanging devices, pedestals, and equipment to build props and portable sets.
• Educational and participatory opportunities for youth, seniors, or underrepresented communities.
• Increased access to arts and cultural events and activities by providing free or discounted tickets.
• Temporary Public Art projects - contact staff for site consideration prior to submitting your application.

Funding Restrictions include:  

• Public activities occurring outside of Bothell.
• Projects devoid of public benefit for Bothell residents.
• Private events not open to Bothell residents.
• Content in opposition to a specific business, political or religious viewpoint or organization.
• Projects already presented in Bothell unless the applicant requests funds for a new or reimagined component of the project.
• Permanent Public Art projects including art projects tied to capital construction.
• Employees, Elected Officials and Boards/Commissions/Committees representing the City of Bothell.
• Cash awards or scholarships to individuals, or to individuals under the age of 18.

Public Funding is Public Benefit: Why it matters 

Projects must provide a public benefit. The Bothell Arts Commission uses public funds to administer this project and our goal is to put it back into the community.  Examples of public benefit include: 

• Free or reduced pricing to artistic and cultural performances, exhibitions, workshops, trainings, screenings, neighborhood and educational activities, parks activities, or readings.
• Services that expand access and inclusion to underserved or underrepresented communities is also considered.
• Free, electronically accessible materials including literary publications; or audio/video recordings.

Evaluation Criteria 

We fund these grants through a competitive process. The panel will evaluate your application using the following: 

Artistic Innovation 

• Quality and assurance the proposal can be executed in the time allowed.
• Innovative approach to foster creative and civic participation by Bothell’s residents and visitors, including underserved or underrepresented communities.
• New art or cultural offerings and opportunities not regularly available to residents or visitors.

Public Access and Benefit 

• All projects must take place in Bothell and be accessible and open to the general public.
• Only new or reimagined projects will be considered. Projects that have already been seen by residents of Bothell will not be considered unless a new component has been added to it.
• Priority will be given to projects that involve Bothell-based artists and organizations; however, this is not a requirement for funding so long as your culminating event meets the public access and benefit requirements.

Project Feasibility 

• Demonstrated experience to accomplish the scope and scale of the project.
• Evidence of thoughtful planning including a clear understanding of the goals and process for evaluation by the panel.
• Realistic budget and timeline.

Timeline (bi-annual review) 

Applications must be submitted electronically by 10:59pm PST on the day of the deadline or it will not be considered by the panel.  

Timeline 

• June 9 - Online application available
• July 16 - Workshop
• Aug 4 - Application due
• Aug 11 - Panel review
• Sept 18 - Panel recommendations to Commission for final approval
• Sept 22 - Applicants notified of Commission’s final selections
• Dec 1, 2026 - Project completion and final reporting for grant award recipients