ASC Announces New Grant Opportunities for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Creatives in 2026

The Arts & Science Council (ASC) is ushering in 2026 with a suite of new grant opportunities aimed at bolstering Charlotte-Mecklenburg's vibrant creative community.

 

These initiatives are designed to provide essential support to artists, creatives, nonprofits, and neighborhood partners, fostering a thriving cultural landscape across the region.

 

Culture Blocks for Creative Individuals

 

Applications Open: January 5 – February 1, 2026

 

First Info Session: January 8

 

Culture Blocks is dedicated to investing directly in artists and creatives whose programming strengthens communities throughout Mecklenburg County.

 

This opportunity is specifically tailored for creative individuals planning to produce programming between July 1 and December 31, 2026, within designated Culture Blocks neighborhoods.

 

Eligible projects include:

 

• Workshops and classes

 

• Performances

 

• Community-based cultural programs

 

• And more

 

Guidelines are currently available, allowing applicants to begin preparations immediately.

 

Emerging Creators & Creative Renewal Fellowships

 

Applications Open: January 20 – February 22, 2026

 

First Info Session: January 22

 

ASC's signature fellowships return in 2026, offering time, space, and support for artists at pivotal moments in their creative journeys.

 

Emerging Creators Fellowship

 

• $10,000 award

 

• For emerging artists residing in Mecklenburg County to take bold steps involving creative risk

 

• Supports the exploration, research, or development of new creative work

 

Creative Renewal Fellowship

 

• $15,000 award

 

• For established artists living in Mecklenburg County, offering time, resources, and freedom to explore new directions and deepen their practice

 

• Provides an opportunity to explore new avenues of creative expression and combat creative burnout

 

Venue Access Grants

 

Applications Open: January 14, 2026 (Rolling Application Cycle)

 

First Info Session: January 13

 

Priority Deadline: February 11 at noon

 

Notifications for Round 1: March 11

 

Recognizing that access to space should not be a barrier to creativity, ASC introduces the Venue Access Grants to help cover the cost of renting venues for performances, exhibitions, rehearsals, community programs, and more.

 

For Nonprofits (501c3 organizations based in Mecklenburg County):

 

• Up to $20,000 in venue rental support

 

• Rolling applications (preference given to those submitted by February 11)

 

For Creative Individuals (living or working in Mecklenburg County):

 

• Up to $10,000 in venue rental support

 

• Rolling applications (preference given to those submitted by February 11)

 

Guidelines and application pages are already live, enabling applicants to start the process promptly.

 

For more information or questions, contact grants@artsandscience.org.

 

Start the New Year with ASC and let your creativity take flight!

 

With fellowships, venue support, and community program funding all opening this January, there has never been a better time to bring your creative vision to life.

 

Follow ASC for reminders, info sessions, and tips.

 

Ask questions, dream big, and let's make 2026 a year of creative possibilities across Charlotte-Mecklenburg.

 

About ASC

 

The Arts & Science Council (ASC) is Charlotte-Mecklenburg's cultural leader, serving as a resource hub, funder, and advocate for arts, science, and history.

 

A supporting organization of Foundation For The Carolinas, ASC champions local creatives by investing in the arts, sciences, and culture to drive economic growth, community retention, and cultural engagement.

 

Our mission is to build inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich communities where creativity drives belonging, growth, and opportunity.

 

From artist support grants and public art stewardship to free Culture Blocks events and partnerships with local schools and universities, ASC invests in a thriving, accessible creative ecosystem for all.

Read more on their official site