Bloomington, Indiana – The Bloomington Arts Commission (BAC), working in partnership with the Bloomington Urban Enterprise Association (BUEA), has opened applications for its 2025 Operations Grant, a program designed to support nonprofit arts organizations that make a direct impact on the Bloomington community. A total of $180,000 has been allocated across the BAC’s three 2025 grant cycles, with funding drawn from the BAC’s annual General Fund and Local Income Tax budget lines, as well as the BUEA’s yearly budget.
The grant is specifically aimed at 501(c)3 organizations whose mission centers on the arts and whose work benefits Bloomington residents. To qualify, applicants must have an annual operating budget of $500,000 or less. Each eligible organization may request up to $5,000 in funding, or five percent of its annual operating budget—whichever amount is smaller. The funds are flexible in their use, covering operational needs such as staff salaries, overhead expenses, and program-related costs.
“The Bloomington Arts Commission is proud to provide funding for our local arts nonprofits, which are key to the vitality of our community,” said Elliot Josephine Leila Reichert, chair of the BAC Grants Committee. “The City of Bloomington continues to grow its commitment to the arts through this opportunity and many more.”
Applications will remain open until 5 p.m. on Friday, September 19. Interested organizations can find the grant guidelines and application forms online at civiform.bloomington.in.gov/programs/art-operations. The BAC encourages all eligible nonprofits to apply, noting that the Operations Grant aims to provide critical support for organizations that contribute to Bloomington’s cultural vibrancy.
To assist with the process, Bloomington Arts Commissioners will hold office hours during the application period, offering first-come, first-served consultations. These sessions give applicants a chance to ask questions and clarify requirements before submitting their materials. Appointments can be scheduled by contacting Holly Warren, Assistant Director for the Arts and Staff Liaison to the Bloomington Arts Commission, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 812-349-3418.
For many of Bloomington’s smaller arts nonprofits, operational funding can be the hardest to secure. While grants for specific programs and projects are more common, unrestricted support for day-to-day operations is essential to keeping organizations running. By offering flexible funding, the BAC’s Operations Grant aims to strengthen these nonprofits, ensuring they can continue to bring performances, exhibitions, workshops, and other cultural experiences to the community.
With this grant cycle now underway, the BAC and BUEA reaffirm their shared commitment to sustaining Bloomington’s arts ecosystem. Through financial support and hands-on guidance, they hope to help local organizations thrive, keeping the city’s creative spirit strong for years to come.
