Tacoma Creates is now accepting applications for its seventh year of funding, supporting programs and events to be presented between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027 by non-profit organizations whose primary purpose is to advance and/or preserve arts, culture, heritage, and/or science. There are two funding categories – Comprehensive Organizational Support funding and Impact funding. Funding is determined through a competitive application process.
“By reauthorizing Tacoma Creates, the City Council showed its commitment to a program that truly serves our community,” said Mayor Anders Ibsen. “I’m proud to continue supporting Tacoma Creates as we build a more creative and connected place.”
“Over the past six years, we’ve seen Tacoma Creates–funded organizations deepen their impact by expanding access to arts, culture, heritage, and science across our city,” said Tacoma Creates Advisory Board Chair Nicole Kendrick. “These organizations are creating meaningful opportunities for connection and belonging, and we’re excited to see proposals that continue to reflect Tacoma’s creativity, diversity, and commitment to welcoming all.”
Comprehensive Organizational Support Funding
Organizations that apply for Comprehensive Organizational Support funding may request up to 15 percent of their total annual budget, based on the three-year average of their actual income, up to a maximum of $400,000 per year. Applicants in this category must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Tacoma and provide a wide range of ongoing cultural programs, including programming available to the general public, as well as youth education programs. The deadline to apply for Comprehensive Organizational Support funding is 11:59 p.m. on March 9, 2026.
Impact Funding
Organizations that apply for Impact funding may request a minimum of $3,000 and up to $60,000 for a single program or multiple programs. Impact funding can support general public programs and/or youth education programs. Organizations in this category may be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization or may apply with an eligible fiscal sponsor. Business District Associations and Neighborhood Councils recognized by the City of Tacoma, Affiliate Cultural Organizations within a larger non-profit, and organizations that are based in Pierce County but whose primary work happens in Tacoma may also be eligible.
There are two levels of funding:
- Level A: for organizations requesting a minimum of $3,000 but less than $20,000, or for organizations only proposing Beyond the Bell / Club B or Summer Late Nights classes
- Level B: for organizations requesting between $20,000 and $60,000
The deadline to apply for Impact funding is 11:59 p.m. on March 23, 2026.
Application Information
Detailed organizational eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and access to the online application form are available at tacomacreates.org.
Application Support
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend a free workshop explaining the application process and how to develop a strong proposal. There will be one workshop on Zoom and two workshops in person. Dates and locations are available online, along with information about how to schedule individual meetings with staff and other resources to support the application process.
About Tacoma Creates
Tacoma Creates is the City of Tacoma’s Cultural Access Program. This community-supported initiative increases access to arts, culture, heritage, and science experiences throughout Tacoma by expanding offerings and reducing barriers to participation, particularly for underserved youth. Learn about the impacts of the $6 million in funding to cultural organizations last year in the Tacoma Creates 2024-2025 Annual Report. Tacoma Creates is part of the Arts & Cultural Vitality Division in the City of Tacoma’s Community and Economic Development Department.