Support for Careers and Lives of Individual Artists
While art is generally valued, data shows that the artist is less so, and individual artists face barriers to accessing already limited resources to support their work. It is the Foundation’s hope that the Pittsburgh region will be exposed to the breadth of human experience and the unparalleled talent the region has to offer through investments that support individual artists. The Foundation recognizes that the impact of artists and their work can be seen in every facet of our lives and are vital to building a thriving and healthy community.
Direct support for individual artists is primarily activated through the Foundation’s program initiatives such as Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh.
Through our foundation-directed grants, we prioritize support for organizations that demonstrate the following:
- Strong and consistent support for Pittsburgh-based artists’ professional and artistic development.
- Providing access to resources and connections for individual artists.
- Prioritizing visibility and amplification of artists’ work.
Since 2023, this has been a responsive funding area that has allowed us to deepen our understanding of the ecosystem of projects that align with grantmaking priorities. As a result, we are more aware of the need for deeper engagement achieved through more targeted and longer-term investment in organizations that prioritize the careers and lives of individual artists through their missions.
Individual artists seeking direct support may consider open program initiatives. At this time, Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh is the only active arts program for which individual artists are eligible to seek funding. Competitive applicants will demonstrate a history of producing or promoting Black arts and culture in Allegheny, Beaver, and Westmoreland Counties.
Application Deadlines
| Foundation-Directed Grants | Application Deadlines* |
|---|---|
| Spring grant cycle | Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 by 5 p.m. (for funding decision after May 13) |
| Fall grant cycle | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 by 5 p.m. (for funding decisions after Oct. 28) |
*Dates above apply to most grant programs. If dates differ, they will be listed on the program page. Dates may be subject to change. The Foundation may adjust the timing of grants in consideration for funding.
Nicole Henninger
More Grantmaking Supporting Arts and Culture
The Pittsburgh Foundation also offers the following funding opportunities to eligible applicants.
