ArtsWave opened applications for the 2026 Inspire Artist Grants on September 29, 2025, with a deadline of October 27. The program, now in its sixth year, funds projects across artistic genres that authentically reflect the lived Black and Brown experience. Any artist who can authentically create such work is encouraged to apply, regardless of personal background.

The Inspire Artist Grant program is supported by a partnership among ArtsWave, the City of Cincinnati, Duke Energy, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and the Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Over the past six years, the program has explored themes including truth, reconciliation, inspiration, innovation, and healing.

The previous year’s cohort of 26 artists culminated in a visual art exhibition, film festival, and live performances at the Contemporary Arts Center. Selected artists for 2026 will create projects that explore new dimensions of these themes.

Source: https://artswave.org/wp-content/uploads/09-29-25-ArtsWave-invites-artists-to-apply-for-Inspire-Grants.pdf