What types of organizations are eligible to apply?

For the Project Grant: The application is open to 501(c)(3) organizations as well as qualified Gwinnett County-based public arts commissions.

For the Placemaking Grant: Applications will be accepted from the following (including but not limited to): arts/culture organizations, public art commissions, civic/community organizations, Community Improvement Districts (CID) and qualified city/county divisions. For profit organizations are not eligible.

Are there any grants for individual artists?

Not Currently, Gwinnett Creativity Fund does not have grants available for individual artists, but eligible organizations who are awarded grants may choose to hire an individual artist for a program or project if they choose to.

How much money should I ask for?

Ask for what you need. Applicants are required to show a 25% cash match and demonstrate fiscal responsibility and sustainability as part of the application.

Does my project have to be outside the scope of my regular programming?

No, a project can be a part of an applicant's regular season or activity. For example, a theater company's educational activities that occur year-round could constitute an acceptable project.

Does my project have to be new? Does it have to be big?

No. Projects do not have to be new. Excellent existing projects which have not received GCF Grant Funding can be just as competitive as new initiatives.

Projects do not need to be big; we welcome small projects that can make a difference in their community or field.

Will you contact me if my application is missing anything?

No. Because of the volume of applications, we have a strict approach to incomplete applications. For your application to be considered complete, every item that is required MUST be included in your application package. This must be submitted no later than the application deadline date under which you are applying. Applications, Final Reports and all attachments must be submitted through SM Apply. Emailed information will not be accepted.

Can you reset my password on SM Apply?

No. You need to set (and remember) your login and password. If you forget your password, you will have to contact SM Apply customer support directly to reset it for you. It is recommended that the primary applicant adds additional contributors to the application to avoid getting locked out of the platform.

If my application is determined to be incomplete, may I add the missing item(s) and resubmit the application?

No. By the time that an application is identified as incomplete, it will likely be several weeks after the application deadline. An organization cannot add missing items and resubmit the application after the application deadline.

When is my Final Report due?

Your Final Report Form will be a link you may download in the reporting section of the grant application to upload to the platform with the additional required attachments. All must be uploaded into the SM Apply platform where you submitted your original application. Typically, final reports are due within 45 days of project completion date (specific application deadlines will be listed in your grant agreement and on the website). An incomplete final report may result in the forfeiture of the remaining half of the grant award.

How do I credit GCF?

Grant recipients are requested to add the Gwinnett Creativity Fund and the Gwinnett County to the sponsor/partners page of their website. If available, GCF logos should also be added to printed marketing collateral.

What do I do if I have a question?

Please contact GCF@exploregwinnett.org