About Our Grants

There are four main eligibility rules:

1. Primary Purpose: Your organization must mainly focus on arts, culture, heritage or science. Organizations focused on social services, health, or business development aren’t eligible, even if they run some cultural programs.
2. Nonprofit Status: Your organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit registered in Washington State. Some grants are also open to individuals using a nonprofit Fiscal Sponsor.
3. Organization Location: Your main address must be in Vancouver city limits. Some grants are open to outside organizations if at least 55% of programs happen in Vancouver.
4. Program Delivery: You must provide programs or experiences directly for Vancouver residents.

Not Eligible: State agencies, municipal corporations, organizations that redistribute funds, and most media outlets (TV, radio, newspapers, magazines, and internet-based media).

Want to learn more? Use our interactive eligibility checker to get started.

Several common themes will help guide the evaluation process:

• Geographic Diversity & Public Access: We’re looking for programs that will help us reach all parts of Vancouver, especially neighborhoods that have had limited access to cultural resources.
• Creative & Cultural Variety: Each grant cycle should include different art forms, cultural traditions and community voices.
• Collaboration & Innovation: We support projects that build partnerships, try new ideas and take creative risks.
• Capital Impact: Investments in facilities should expand access, strengthen cultural spaces and provide long-term benefits in Vancouver.

• Applications are reviewed through a fair, competitive process.
• Grant Review Committees made up of Vancouver residents evaluate applications based on published criteria, public benefit, organizational capacity, and community impact.
• Grant Review Committees submit recommendations to the Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission, which makes final funding decisions.
• Inspire Vancouver staff do not score applications or vote on funding decisions.

In our first year, we’re rolling out grant opportunities in phases:

• Impact, Innovation and Comprehensive grants will open this summer for funding in 2026-27
• Capital grant timing will be announced this fall for funding in 2027
• School Grants will begin with the 2026-27 school year for Vancouver and Evergreen Public Schools

Follow us on Instagram and sign up for our email list to get updates and reminders when applications open.