Lydia McCain Grant to Advance Artist Opportunities 2026-2027
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The Lydia McCain Grant to Advance Artist Opportunities is a funding source for artists in Erie County who have a strong artistic vision and a timely opportunity present that will help advance their artistic career. Examples of such opportunities may include, but are not limited to: the creation of new work, promotion of existing work, and professional development.
Grant funds may be used for opportunities and related costs incurred between June 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027.
Eligible use of grant funding includes, but is not limited to:
- Portfolio development
- Professional third-party services (representation, marketing, photography, web development, accounting, etc).
- Materials/supplies
- Equipment lease or purchases
- Facilities/studio rental
- Travel
- Workshop/conference registration fees
- Fees related to artist residencies
- Transportation/shipping of work for exhibition/display
- Grant awards may be used to reimburse expenses incurred for activities occurring within the identified activity period.
Ineligible uses of grant funds:
- Expenses related to ANY degree granting program
- Activities that have already taken place or take place outside of the grant period
- Living expenses not tied to a specific project or opportunity (e.g., rent, utilities)
- Erie Arts & Culture arts-in-education teaching artist residency host site match
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be a practicing artist creating original work with a demonstrated commitment to advancing their professional creative career.
- Be a legal resident of Erie County.
Questions about eligibility? Please contact Casey Corritore, Capacity Building Lead, at casey@erieartsandculture.org | 814-452-3427 x 108.
Applicants will be notified of funding decisions via email on May 31, 2026.