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October 1, 2025: The Springfield Area Arts Council (SAAC) is now accepting applications for the FY26 Regional Arts Partner (RAP) grant program, a unique funding opportunity for organizations and businesses to bring community-focused arts projects to life in Sangamon and Menard counties.
RAP grants are the only program in the region that re-grants state-designated funds from the Illinois Arts Council directly to local organizations that create meaningful arts experiences for local residents. By re-granting state-designated funds, SAAC ensures that investments in the arts directly impact the community, supporting projects that may otherwise lack funding. All funded projects must include a public presentation or community service component, ensuring arts experiences reach and engage the community.
Past RAP recipients include Hoogland Center for the Arts, Intricate Minds, and Senior Services of Central Illinois. “I’m so grateful for the Regional Arts Partner Grant and the Springfield Area Arts Council’s continued support of Hoogland Education,” said Molly Harms, Program Director of the Hoogland Performing Arts Education. “We’ve been lucky enough to receive this grant for several years, and it has truly shaped what we’re able to offer our students. Last year, for example, the RAP grant allowed us to costume all 50 children in our production of 101 Dalmatians. Without this funding, our theater education program simply couldn’t thrive at the level it does, reaching and inspiring so many young people in our community.” Bella Szabo, Executive Director of the Springfield Area Arts Council, added, “The Regional Arts Partner program is one of the most important parts of our mission and one of my favorite initiatives we lead. It allows us to directly support organizations that bring meaningful arts experiences into our community, and that impact is exactly why we do what we do.”
Applications for FY26 RAP grants will be accepted from October 1–31, 2025. Projects must take place between December 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026. Interested organizations can visit the SAAC website for guidelines, eligibility requirements, and instructions to apply.
The Springfield Area Arts Council connects people and the arts through support, promotion, and outreach. Through events, grants, and community partnerships, SAAC fosters a vibrant and creative region where the arts thrive. The Springfield Area Arts Council is located in the Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 South 6th Street, Springfield, IL. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. For more information and future events, visit the website.
