Convening Grants

Convening grant support is available for programs that:

• advance innovative research and professional practice in American art
• address critical issues that may deepen and expand the stories and voices within the field

Projects focused on influencing changes in practice should demonstrate a strong engagement with the field of American art.

For convenings connected to permanent collection reinstallations or temporary exhibitions, please see our Collections Grant program and Exhibition Grant program.

Up to $5,000 of an awarded grant may be used for resulting proceedings or publications, whether online or in print; funds for this purpose need to be spent within one year of the event.

Up to 20% of a Terra Foundation grant may offset direct administrative costs, and up to 15% of a grant may be applied to indirect costs.

The Terra Foundation prefers not to be the sole outside contributor to an event.

We encourage projects that:

• collectively reflect the full breadth and complexity of American art and its histories through the artists represented, voices included, and stories told
• engage artists, scholars, and communities who present a plurality of perspectives and methods, including intercultural and interdisciplinary approaches
• catalyze inclusive and expansive practices in the field of American art

All applicants must hold United States 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or the international equivalent. Grants are not made to individuals.

This program is open to organizations within and outside of the United States. Convenings held in person, virtually, or in hybrid formats are eligible for support.

While the foundation welcomes requests from previous grantees, please note that we aim to fund a range of organizations over time.

These programs are intended for scholarly, professional, and public audiences. Programs designed primarily for the general public, travel grants, fellowship programs, research databases, alumni gatherings, and capital expenditures are not eligible for funding through this program.

Grant Inquiry Form
Use the Apply Now buttons to submit a grant inquiry form by the deadline listed on this page. After reviewing the inquiry, the foundation may invite you to submit a grant proposal.

Grant Proposal
If invited, prospective applicants submit a grant proposal. Formal proposals and all attachments must be written in English. Grant proposals are reviewed by an external panel made up of curators and other arts professionals who reflect a diverse range of backgrounds, perspectives, and approaches.