APPLICATIONS
The Commission receives more applications than it can fund. Well thought out and clear answers to the narrative questions, high quality work samples, effective supplemental materials, reasonable grant requests and accurate budgets are essential elements of a comprehensive application. Read the “how to apply” section before filling out your application and use the appropriate forms.

Need help? Applicants are encouraged to communicate with staff in advance of submitting an application. Request a courtesy review at least three weeks before the application deadline. Staff suggestions may strengthen your application; however, this process does not guarantee funding.

A complete well-crafted application provides all the information necessary for panel review. Since incomplete applications will be returned, fill out and include the checklist. Be sure to complete all fields on the application form. Answers to the required narrative questions are the heart of the application and an opportunity to communicate with the panel. The published evaluation criteria can serve as a guide.

SUBMISSION
Applications are limited to one within a grant category for each deadline. Applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered by the deadline. Deadlines are strictly enforced and late applications will be returned. All eligibility requirements must be met on the date of application. Applications cannot be submitted by fax or other electronic methods. Applications are processed and reviewed for eligibility and completeness, then sent to a review panel for evaluation.

PANEL REVIEW AND ATTENDANCE AT PANEL MEETINGS
Professional panelists who provide diverse viewpoints within their discipline and broad demographic representation extensively review all applications. Out-of-state experts are often used to help ensure fairness and to reduce conflicts of interest. Panelists evaluate applications based on published evaluation criteria and propose recommendations to Commissioners who make all final funding decisions. Applicants are encouraged to attend these public meetings to gain a better understanding of the process; however, they are not allowed to participate in panel discussions. Applicants in attendance must not disclose panel recommendations until after the Commission has approved them.

GRANTS AND AWARDS
All grants and awards are contingent upon availability of funds. Applicants will be notified about funding after Commission approval. Funds will be available after July 1 for annual grants, awards, and QuickFunds. Funds are taxable, so consult a tax preparer. Ten percent of funds in certain categories will be held pending receipt and approval of final report. Keep records for at least three years.

FINAL FINANCIAL AND NARRATIVE REPORT
The fiscal year begins July 1, 2013 and ends June 30, 2014. Final reports are a critical part of our report to the NEA. The Commission encourages grantees to submit final reports immediately after a funded project is completed. However, all final reports must be submitted by July 31, 2014 to receive final payments. All grantees are required to submit a final report to remain eligible for future funding. (See specific programs for details.) Extension requests must be submitted to the Grants Unit prior to June 30, 2014.

Visit Final report forms page.

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