Published April 2 2026
On Monday, April 13, the City of Bellevue will start taking applications for Art and Cultural Facilities grants, which can help local nonprofits acquire, build and maintain art-related facilities in 2027 and 2028.
Bellevue-based nonprofits seeking funding to acquire, construct or maintain art and cultural facilities, including capitalized equipment and improvements to leased spaces, are encouraged to apply. Eligible projects must occur in 2027-2028 or be expense reimbursements from activities occurring in 2025-2026.
Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, June 15.
To support applicants with their proposals, the city is offering an information session on Thursday, May 7, at 11 a.m., as well as drop-in office hours throughout the application period. Those applying are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these resources.
The city’s Art and Cultural Facilities Grant Program was launched in 2024, underscoring Bellevue’s commitment to supporting local nonprofit arts providers. For many years the city has provided other grants to individual artists and groups and has also purchased public art. By focusing on organizational capacity, the facilities program expands the breadth and depth of artistic and entertainment offerings across Bellevue.
In 2024, the city awarded a total of $1.8 million supporting five projects in 2025 and 2026: a new dance studio in Lake Hills; a black-box theater and new HVAC system in the BelRed Arts District; a remodel of a downtown children’s water play exhibit; and a much-needed update to the Carlson Theatre, which allowed the facility to reopen for public use.
For application guidelines and instructions on how to attend the information session or drop-in office hours, please visit Arts Grants or contact Manette Stamm at mstamm@bellevuewa.gov.