HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-05-01; Arts Commission; 02; Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding PlanMeeting Date: May 1, 2025
To: Arts Commission
From: Krystal Roa, Program Manager
Staff Contact: Krystal Roa, Program Manager
krystal.roa@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-5611
Subject: Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding Plan
District: All
Recommended Action
Receive and approve Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding Plan.
Executive Summary
Report on the fiscal year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants cycle for the Arts Commission’s
review and approval. An overview of the process of the recent grant cycle and 26 eligible grants
presented for consideration with $117,128 available in funding.
Explanation & Analysis
For nearly 40 years, the City of Carlsbad has provided vital support to the local arts and
education sectors through its Community Arts Grants program. These grants are designed to
support both established and emerging nonprofit arts organizations, as well as creative projects
and educational arts programs throughout Carlsbad.
Aligned with the Arts & Culture Master Plan, the program underscores the city’s commitment
to sustaining a vibrant cultural environment. The plan includes a key initiative that calls for
continuous financial investment in the arts, directly supporting the City Council’s Community
Character goal, which promotes funding for policies and programs that enhance Carlsbad’s
unique identity through arts and culture.
For the 2025–26 grant cycle, updates were made to the Educational Institutions and Affiliated
Groups – Arts in Schools application category. These updates include revised funding limits and
expanded eligible uses of grant monies, allowing greater flexibility and impact for schools and
their arts programs.
The application period for the 2025–26 Community Arts Grants was from February 10 - March
17, 2025.
ARTS COMMISSION
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 1 of 25
Fiscal Analysis
No additional funding is requested.
Next Steps
Upon the Arts Commission's approval of the FY 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding Plan,
staff will inform grant recipients of their awards and proceed with executing agreements.
Distribution of grant funds is generally scheduled for mid-August.
Environmental Evaluation
The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by CEQA Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines
Section 15378(b)(5) and does not require environment review under CEQA Guidelines Section
15060(c)(3) and 15061(b)(3), because the proposed action to report on the Fiscal Year 2025-26
Community Arts Grants is an organizational or administrative government activity that does not
involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant
physical impact on the environment. Any subsequent action or direction stemming from the
proposed action may require preparation of an environmental document in accordance with
CEQA or CEQA Guidelines.
Exhibits
1.Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Application
2.Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review
3.Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Guidelines
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 2 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 1
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for Arts
Organizations
City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Application Verification
Application Type Verification:*
This application is for Arts Organizations applying for the Arts Project category. If you
are looking for other funding opportunities, please click on the "Apply" button in the blue
bar on the top of this screen.
Applicants may only submit one application per category per funding cycle.
Choices
I verify that this is the application for the Arts Projects for Arts Organizations category.
Guidelines & Eligibility Requirements Review Confirmation:*
Please be sure to review the Community Arts Grants Guidelines and eligibility requirements
prior to submitting a grant application. A summary of the eligibility requirements is also
provided on the application homepage.
Choices
I have reviewed the Community Arts Grants Guidelines and the eligibility requirements.
Fiscal Sponsor Role
As an Arts Organization, would you be interested in acting as a Fiscal Sponsor for individual
artists to apply for future Community Arts Grants? This would not impact your own
organization's ability to apply for funding. If you check yes, Cultural Arts Office staff will reach
out with more information. We appreciate your support of individual artists! (OPTIONAL)
Choices
Yes
All applicants that wish to collaborate with others to complete this grant application may
use the "collaborator" button on the top right section of this page (instructions below.):
Collaborator feature
Video Tutorial (2 minutes long)
*If applicable, please note that some data from the applying organization's GuideStar profile
may be pre-populated (copied) into the corresponding GuideStar questions on this application
form. You may do so by clicking on the "Copy GuideStar" profile button on the top right section
of this page (next to the "Collaborator" button) and selecting what you would like to pre-
populate. Note that you will have the ability to edit your pre-populated information.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 3 of 25
Exhibit 1
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 2
Organization Information
•Arts Organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations established for
at least 3 years as of January 1, 2025
•Applicants may only submit one application per funding cycle and cannot apply to
multiple categories
Past Funding*
Has your organization received funding from the City of Carlsbad's Community Arts Grants
program in the past?
Choices
Yes
No
Are you an individual artist applying through a fiscal agent?*
Choices
Yes
No
Primary Organization Name
Name as shown on an IRS letter of determination.
Character Limit: 100
DBA (if applicable)
Character Limit: 250
Organization Website
Character Limit: 2000
Organization Mission Statement:
Please provide your organization's mission statement. If you have a GuideStar profile, you may
copy and paste your organization's GuideStar mission statement or provide another version
here. If you are an individual artist, use this section to give us an idea of your mission/vision as
an artist.
Character Limit: 700
Past Funding Report Requirements
Current Grantee Requirements:*
If you are a returning grantee from the previous grant cycle, please confirm that you
understand that a final report and final budget for your organization must be submitted prior to
entering a new grant agreement with the City of Carlsbad. A final report and final budget must
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 4 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 3
be submitted (30) calendar days after the Project End Date. Alternatively, if you cannot meet
this requirement, we will accept a project status update via email explaining the status of your
project, estimated project end date and any other project details you would like to share with
us.
I understand that should my organization receive funding for this cycle, my organization will
fulfill all reporting requirements from the previous cycle prior to my organization entering a
new agreement with the City of Carlsbad.
Choices
Yes
Project Information and Narrative
•Projects must take place in Carlsbad, be accessible to the public and benefit the
community of Carlsbad
•All arts projects/activities require the participation of an artist or subject matter expert
•Arts Project grants have a maximum award of $7,500 ( Note: those applying in Emerging
Arts Organization category have a maximum award of $5,000)
Character Limit: 250
Project Name:*
Please provide us with the name of the arts project.
Character Limit: 100
Project Summary:*
Please provide us with a brief summary of your project.
Character Limit: 1500
Project Start Date:*
Please note that project start date must be on or after September 2, 2025.
Character Limit: 10
Project End Date:*
Please note that the project end date must be on or before September 2, 2026.
Character Limit: 10
Project Details:
Please provide additional details for the project such as additional dates, times and location(s)
for all project events for marketing, communications and/or possible future site visits.
Character Limit: 700
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 5 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 4
Amount Requested:*
This is the amount your organization is requesting from the City of Carlsbad's Cultural Arts
Grants. Please note that the maximum funding amount request is $7,500 for one-year arts
projects.
Character Limit: 20
Participants:*
Total number of expected participants for this project (i.e. artists, coordinators, directors.)
Character Limit: 5
Audience:*
Total number of expected audience attendance for this project.
Character Limit: 5
Previous Project Success:
If your organization has completed a similar project, please provide details of the project and
why it was successful.
Character Limit: 1500
Project Distinction:
What makes this project distinctive?
Character Limit: 1500
Project Goals:
What are the goals (outputs and/or outcomes) of the project? How will you measure your
goals?
Character Limit: 1500
Target Population:
Who is your target population and why? How will you reach them?
Character Limit: 1500
Project Partnerships:
If applicable, please provide names and brief descriptions of roles for any partners in this
project. This would include any organizations, artists or individuals involved in your project that
are not employed or affiliated with the applying organization.
Character Limit: 700
Partner Resumes:
If applicable, you may upload any resumes of teaching artists, artists or any other partners in
the proposed project here. Please consolidate into one PDF if possible.
Contact the Cultural Arts department at arts@carlsbadca.gov should you need assistance.
File Size Limit: 2 MB
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 6 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 5
Organization Changes/Challenges/Circumstances:
What special circumstances, challenges or changes have affected your organization? What
impact has this had on your organization?
Character Limit: 1500
Fiscal Agent Information
As an organization or artist applying for an arts project through a fiscal agent, we
require the following eligibility requirements:
•Individuals or organizations without non-profit status may apply through a fiscal agent.
•Fiscal agents will be responsible for receiving awarded funds and dispersing them with a
service fee no more than 10% of the amount awarded to the applicant.
•Organizations that act as fiscal agents are still eligible to apply for a Community Arts
Grants on their own.
•Any individual artist receiving funding through a fiscal agent must be 18 years of age on
or before the application due date.
•The fiscal agent cannot benefit from the project
Please provide the following information for the fiscal agent:
Fiscal Agency Organization Name:*
Character Limit: 50
Fiscal Agent Organization Address:*
Character Limit: 100
Fiscal Agent Phone # (i.e. 760-222-1234 ext.12):*
Character Limit: 25
Fiscal Agent EIN / Tax ID # (i.e. 12-1234567) :*
Character Limit: 10
Fiscal Agent Organization Website URL:*
Character Limit: 2000
Fiscal Agent Primary Contact:*
Please enter the fiscal agency main contact first & last name
Character Limit: 50
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 7 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 6
Fiscal Agent Primary Contact Email Address:*
Character Limit: 254
Project Support Information
You may upload support information in this section.
Contact the Cultural Arts department at arts@carlsbadca.gov should you need assistance.
Materials Upload (OPTIONAL, but recommended):
Please upload any marketing materials, images and/or files that would provide more
information about your project.
File Size Limit: 5 MB
Videos Upload (OPTIONAL):
Please provide us with a host website link for all videos relevant to the project.
Character Limit: 2000
Videos Upload (OPTIONAL)
If you do not have a URL that hosts your videos, you may upload it here.
File Size Limit: 5 MB
Additional Materials:
You may upload any other additional supplemental materials you wish to provide here (i.e.
letters of support from partnering organization(s) that is essential to your project.)
File Size Limit: 2 MB
Application Submission
Application Submission:
Note: Once you submit your application, you cannot edit the form. Please review your
answers before submitting
After you submit this application, you will receive an email for the submission
confirmation.
Application Certification:*
I certify that the information contained in this application, including all attachments and
support materials, is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Choices
Yes
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 8 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 7
Date of Application Submission:*
Character Limit: 10
Organization Signatory Information
Please list the names and organizational titles of the two (2) officers listed on the Statement of
Information filed with the California Secretary of State for your organization (or listed on the
most recent board roster.) These are officers who are authorized to enter into legally binding
agreements on behalf of your organization (i.e. CEO, CFO, Treasurer, Secretary.)
One corporate officer from each of the following groups must sign the agreement:
Group A Group B
Chairman, Secretary,
President, or Assistant Secretary,
Vice-President CFO or Assistant Treasurer
Otherwise the corporation must attach a resolution certified by the secretary or assistant
secretary under corporate seal empowering the officer(s) signing to bind the corporation.
You can verify your status with the California Secretary of State and see the officers listed on
the Statement of Information at this website: Search | California Secretary of State
Signor #1 First and Last Name (i.e. Mary Wilson):*
Character Limit: 100
Signor #1 Organizational Title (i.e. CEO):*
Character Limit: 50
Signor #1 Email address:*
Character Limit: 254
Signor #2 First and Last Name (i.e. Luke Wilson):*
Character Limit: 100
Signor #2 Organizational Title (i.e. Secretary):*
Character Limit: 50
Signor #2 Email Address:*
Character Limit: 254
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 9 of 25
Application City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts
Printed On: 23 April 2025
Fiscal Year 2025-26: Arts Projects for
Arts Organizations 8
Budget Information
You may upload budget support information in this section. Please consolidate into one PDF if
possible.
Contact the Cultural Arts office at arts@carlsbadca.gov should you need assistance.
Total Project Budget
Character Limit: 20
Project Budget Form:*
Download a Community Arts Grants budget form and complete the "Projected" column. Save
your completed file as a PDF and upload your project budget form here. Make sure costs tie in
with your project narrative. * PLEASE USE COMMUNITY ARTS GRANT BUDGET FORM
ONLY. Budget forms are available on the Cultural Arts Community Arts Grants webpage. Please
contact the Cultural Arts office at arts@carlsbadca.gov should you need assistance.
File Size Limit: 2 MB
Organizational Budget:*
Please upload a current organizational budget.
File Size Limit: 2 MB
Letter of Determination:
If you are a first time grant applicant with the City of Carlsbad, please upload your IRS Letter of
Determination.
File Size Limit: 2 MB
Audited Financials:*
Please upload your organization's most recent completed short form 990s.
File Size Limit: 3 MB
Board Roster:*
Please upload your organization's roster of board members and ensure the document includes
names, titles, organization/business affiliation and areas of expertise. Alternatively, we will also
accept the most recent board meeting minutes that includes the board roster.
File Size Limit: 2 MB
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 10 of 25
Exhibit 2
FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 COMMUNITY ARTS GRANTS
FUNDING PLAN REVIEW
The City of Carlsbad’s Cultural Arts Office Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants (CAG)
program supports projects and activities that provide quality arts and cultural programming
within Carlsbad. Funds are available for organizations, schools and individuals through a
competitive application and review process.
The Fiscal Year 2025-26 cycle utilized the cloud-based Grant Lifecycle Manager provided by
Foundant Technologies, allowing for improved accessibility and online access for all users.
The total funds available for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 grant cycle are $117,128. The funding
amount from the previous grant cycle was $117,128.
Each grant was evaluated by three (3) scoring panelists for these funding categories:
1. Arts Organizations: Arts Projects
2. Educational Institutions or Affiliated Groups
3. Emerging Arts Organizations
Applications for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants cycle was open from February
10 to March 17, 2025. The Panelist Review period was from March 18 to April 18, 2025. Fifteen
panelists (15) successfully completed scoring the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants
applications using the Foundant Grant Lifecycle Manager. The panelists included representatives
from city staff, education specialists, unaffiliated library staff and community members.
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
Fiscal Year 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Schedule
DATE
Feb. 10, 2025 Application opens
Feb. 18, 2025 Applicant Workshop #1, Virtual
Feb. 18 – Feb. 28, 2025 Technical Assistance Meetings by Appointment
Mar. 17, 2025 Application deadline, submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m.
Mar. 24 - Apr. 21, 2025 Eligible applications reviewed and scored by peer panel of
arts professionals, educators and community members.
May 1, 2025 Arts Commission review and approval
May 12 - June 30, 2025 Notify recipients and execute agreements
Sept. 2, 2025 Projects/activities period opens
Sept. 2, 2026 Projects/activities period closes
Oct. 2, 2026 Final Reports for FY 2025-26 Due
Funding Amounts
Each application was evaluated in three categories, with a maximum of 10 points per category.
However, the categories were weighted differently in calculating the final score: Quality of
Program and Organizational Capacity each accounted for 20% of the total score, while
Community Impact carried a weight of 60%. Foundant converted these weighted scores into
percentages. The final score for each application was determined by averaging the total scores
from all reviewers.
These are the results for the review scores and funding amounts:
• Total Available Funding: $117,128
• Total Applications: 28
• Eligible Applications: 26
• Total Number of Funded Projects: 26
• Total 2025-26 Amount Requested: $136,100
• Total 2025-26 Amount Funded: $117,128
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
Funding Amount Equations
Applicants that scored higher than 70% are recommended for funding.
SCORE PERCENTAGE LEVEL OF FUNDING
100% - 90% 100%
80 - 89% 85%
70 - 79% 75%
Under 70%
Funding allocations were adjusted based on the availability of the
remaining funds and aligned with the demonstrated needs of each
organization.
1. ARTS ORGANIZATIONS: ARTS PROJECTS
• Total Arts Projects Applications: 12
• Total Arts Projects Amount Requested: $91,460
• Total Arts Projects Awarded: 12
• Total Arts Projects Amount Funded: $68,359
Campana Studios: Economic Advancement Program for Visual Artists
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $5,625 SCORE: 71%
Project Description: This six-part workshop series at Carlsbad Library, led by industry
professionals, equips local visual artists with essential business skills—like marketing, pricing,
and legal knowledge—to help them grow sustainable careers and strengthen Carlsbad’s
creative community.
Carlsbad Oceanside Art League: Demo & Expression
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $5,625 SCORE: 75%
Project Description: Demo and Expression will offer 17 free interactive art programs for all
ages—led by master instructors and including supplies—throughout Carlsbad, along with 6
new youth-focused events and extensive community outreach via online registration, media,
and local partnerships.
Carlsbad Playhouse: Playreaders Performance Series 2025-26
REQUEST: $5,435 AWARD: $4,076.25 SCORE: 77%
Project Description: The 30th anniversary season will expand to nine shows—including
premieres and original works—while encouraging broader community access with low-cost,
youth-friendly admission.
Classics for Kids, Inc.: Equitable Access to Music Education for Under-Resourced Students
in Carlsbad
REQUEST: $5,000 AWARD: $3,750 SCORE: 79%
Project Description: Offering free orchestra concerts and assemblies aligned with California
Arts Standards to 900 students in two Title 1 schools in Carlsbad, focusing on cultural
understanding, social-emotional learning, and diverse composers.
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
Kids for Peace: KINDNESS MATTERS in Carlsbad
REQUEST: $6,025 AWARD: $1,282.75 SCORE: 67%
Project Description: New collaborative “KINDNESS MATTERS” public art installation at the
CUSD Office, created by middle and high school students and unveiled during The Great
Kindness Challenge launch event.
New Village Arts Theatre Inc.: The 24th Season of Professional Theatre at New village Arts
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $6,375 SCORE: 83%
Project Description: The 24th Season at the Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center, featuring
productions like Rent, The Apiary, a new play, and Dreamgirls—offering a range of stories
that reflect love, loss, and imagination.
North Coast Repertory Theatre Inc.: School Outreach Tours
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $6,375 SCORE: 87%
Project Description: Present two student-focused outreach tours—Winnie the Pooh for
elementary students and Julius Caesar for middle and high school students. Featuring a cast
of student and professional actors to make live theatre more relatable, educational, and
accessible.
Patrons of the Arts Foundation: Community Technical Theatre Learning Program
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $6,375 SCORE: 87%
Project Description: Equipping teens and adults with hands-on experience in sound, lighting,
stage management, costumes, and more.
San Diego Art Institute aka ICA San Diego: The Valise Project
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $7,500 SCORE: 100%
Project Description: The Valise Project is an arts outreach program that brings contemporary
mobile art sculptures and interactive creative projects into Carlsbad classrooms, engaging
300 underserved students in the 2025-2026 academic year with hands-on art experiences led
by professional teaching artists.
St. Michael’s by-the-Sea: Jazz Fest
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $6,375 SCORE: 87%
Project Description: St. Michael’s Jazz Fest, a free one-day music festival on September 27,
2025, will celebrate New Orleans jazz, blues, and brass band music with performances by
national, local, and student bands, along with food vendors and a beer garden.
Theatre and Arts Foundation of San Diego County: Performance Outreach Program (POP)
Tour 2026
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $7,500 SCORE: 92%
Project Description: The Performance Outreach Program (POP) Tour brings new plays
Carlsbad students with performances, workshops, and curriculum resources designed to
foster creativity and collaboration. The 2026 tour, written by Mabelle Reynoso, will focus on
literacy and learning differences. A $7,500 grant will support 2-3 performances at Carlsbad
schools.
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
Villa-Lobos International Chamber Music Festival, Inc.: Carlsbad Residency
REQUEST: $7,500 AWARD: $7,500 SCORE: 93%
Project Description: Residencies featuring world-class musicians performing Latin American
chamber music for Carlsbad middle and high school students through classroom visits and
large auditorium concerts.
2. EMERGING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
• Total Emerging Arts Organizations/Projects Applications: 3
• Total Emerging Arts Organization Amount Requested: $15,000
• Total Arts Projects Awarded: 3
• Total Emerging Arts Organization Amount Funded: $13,000
Melba Tirado Sanchez – From Our Point of View: Vignettes From the Latina Perspective
REQUEST: $5,000 AWARD: $4,250 SCORE: 89%
Project Description: "Latina Voices" aims to present narratives that resonate with different
aspects of the Latina experience while fostering understanding and unity.
Persian Place - The Song of the Reed: A Mystical Journey
REQUEST: $5,000 AWARD: $3,750 SCORE: 74%
Project Description: This performance combines music, poetry, and calligraphy to explore the
soul’s longing for its source, using the Ney, Rumi’s words, and David Whyte’s reflections to
guide an inner journey of connection and awareness.
Striving to Serve - Art Across Generations: Bridging Communities Through Creative
Connection
REQUEST: $5,000 AWARD: $5,000 SCORE: 93%
Project Description: This intergenerational arts project connects Carlsbad’s seniors, veterans,
students, and families to create collaborative artwork, promoting connection, creativity, and
inclusivity, with a three-day showcase in June 2026 to celebrate participants' work and
strengthen community ties.
3. EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS ARTS IN SCHOOLS OR AFFILIATED GROUPS
• Total Educational Institutions Applications: 11
• Total Educational Institutions Amount Requested: $37,140
• Total Educational Institutions Awarded: 11
• Total Educational Institutions Amount Funded: $35,769
Aviara Oaks Middle School: Carlsbad Theatre Festival 2025
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $2,244 SCORE: 83%
Project Description: The Carlsbad Theatre Festival (CTF) is an annual CUSD event where
drama students perform prepared scenes, receive feedback from theatre professionals, and
attend master classes.
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
Carlsbad High School Bands: Funding for Auxiliary Musical Coaching Staff
REQUEST: $2,640 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 94%
Project Description: Auxiliary staff to support 80 diverse student musicians, ensuring the
continued excellence of its drum line, marching band, and color guard seasons.
Carlsbad High School Choral Boosters: Choir Program
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 97%
Project Description: Professional music arrangement for the Carlsbad High School Choir
reliant upon expert musical arranging for their set performances, concerts and festival
competitions.
Carlsbad High School Theatre Department: Musical Production
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 97%
Project Description: Broadway-style musical with a student cast, crew, and orchestra in April–
May 2026, featuring six performances and guest alumni choreographers supporting auditions
and rehearsals from January to April.
La Costa Canyon High School Foundation, Inc.: Spring Musical 2026
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 98%
Project Description: La Costa Canyon HS Theatre will produce “Monty Python's SPAMALOT”
in 2026, offering a large cast size that allows the department to involve over 60 students,
regardless of experience, in this comedic musical that parodies Arthurian legend.
La Costa Canyon High School Foundation, Inc.: La Costa Canyon Dance Program Spring
Production 2026
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $2,975 SCORE: 88%
Project Description: La Costa Canyon's Spring Dance Production features 195 students from
various levels and includes outside choreographers and the LCC Cheer Squad, showcasing
diverse dance talents.
La Costa Canyon High School Foundation, Inc.: 2026 Band-o-Rama Community Event &
Music Program Investment for Growth
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 97%
Project Description: A music enrichment camp, inviting local schools to showcase band music,
with coaches and student leaders working on music fundamentals.
Sage Creek High School Dance Department: Building Ballet Foundations: Elevating Dance
Technique and Performance
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $2,550 SCORE: 89%
Project Description: Focused ballet and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) training from
guest artist Auti Kamal Scolman to high school dance students of all levels, building strength,
flexibility, and technique, and culminating in the program’s first dedicated ballet
performance.
Sage Creek High School Drama: CUSD Children's Theatre Project
City of Carlsbad, Community Arts Grants Funding Plan Review Fiscal Year 2025-26
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 97%
Project Description: The Sage Creek Drama Department’s CUSD Children’s Theatre Project
offers free performances for K-8 students, with high schoolers performing and interacting
with the audience.
Valley Middle School: Advanced Art Portfolio Art Show
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 91%
Project Description: The end-of-year art show showcases the year-long work of Advanced Art
students, along with artwork from 6th to 8th grade students. The event features a community
art activity, an art hunt with prizes, and visiting professional artists.
Valley Middle School: 2025-26 Guest Artists/Coaches for Small Group Ensembles
REQUEST: $3,500 AWARD: $3,500 SCORE: 98%
Project Description: Enhance the 2025-26 Valley Middle School Band and Orchestra program
by bringing in skilled teaching artists for small group rehearsals. This will provide focused,
individualized instruction to approximately 175 students across five music groups, improving
their skills and preparation for concerts and competitions.
DENIED/ INELIGIBLE FOR SCORING (2)
The Hill Street Country Club: The Healing and Belonging Through the Arts
Citizens for Community Oversight
1
FISCAL YEAR 2025-26
COMMUNITY ARTS GRANTS GUIDELINES
WELCOME
The City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts Office serves to encourage, develop and facilitate an enriched environment of artistic,
creative and cultural activity in the City of Carlsbad and the North San Diego County region. The Cultural Arts Office manages
funding programs to provide financial support to organizations, schools and individuals for various projects through a
competitive application and review process. These projects benefit the community through an array of activities for schools,
artists and organizations. The Community Arts Grants program was identified for continued and increasing support by the
Carlsbad City Council through the 2018 Arts & Culture Master Plan.
The City of Carlsbad’s Community Arts Grants program supports quality arts and cultural programming that promotes the
representation and participation of diverse groups of individuals, including and not limited to people of differing abilities,
class, generations, ethnicities and races, gender identities, religious or spiritual beliefs, sexual orientations, or veteran status.
Our mission supports the following values:
•Provide inclusive opportunities for arts & culture experiences for Carlsbad students and residents
reducing/eliminating barriers for participation.
•Provide arts education and lifelong learning opportunities for all ages.
•Support local and regional arts organizations as an important component of the economy and quality of life in
Carlsbad and North San Diego County.
•Support arts education in schools and through affiliated organizations.
•Develop and support organizational strength and capacity of Carlsbad arts organizations.
•Encourage new and emerging artists, arts organizations and programs in Carlsbad, CA.
•Celebrate Carlsbad as an exciting, vibrant and creative destination for residents and visitors alike.
•Acknowledge indigenous land and cultural awareness in the Carlsbad community.
FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 OVERVIEW
The updated FY 2025-26 guidelines reflect national grantmaking trends and best practices and support funding for artists and
arts organizations in Carlsbad and surrounding areas. Guidelines were approved by the City of Carlsbad’s Arts Commission on
Dec. 5, 2024.
Total funding available for the FY 2025-26 cycle is $117,128. All final reports are due within 30 days of the completion of the
event or Oct. 2, 2026, whichever comes first. The first 80% of all awarded funds will be disbursed after agreements are
executed and by the Sept. 2, 2025, grant start date; the final 20% once the final report and budget are submitted and
approved.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Grantees are asked to remain vigilant and informed of health and safety requirements, including mandated protocols as
outlined by state, county, local or other governmental bodies always. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of the
agreement and grant funds.
Important dates for the FY 2025-26 grant cycle application are as follows:
•Applications open: Monday, Feb. 10, 2025
•Applications due: Monday, Mar. 17, 2025
•Arts Commission Funding Plan review & approval: Thursday, May 1, 2025, subject to change
•Funding Cycle begins Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025
•All projects must be completed by Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026
•Applications can be accessed online.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 18 of 25
Exhibit 3
2
UPDATES FOR THIS YEAR
• Professional artist or outside consultant: All proposed arts projects must involve a professional artist or outside
consultant in lieu of or in addition to the applicant/teacher. Example, professional graphic artist, choreographer, etc.
from outside of the project site. SEE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND AFFILIATED GROUPS – ARTS IN SCHOOLS
• NOTE: Educational Institutions Application Limit: There is a cap on the number of applications for Educational
Institutions (Arts in Schools) of (3) three grants per school site. For detailed requirements, please refer to the Arts in
Schools Requirements section.
ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL APPLICANTS; IMPORTANT: READ CAREFULLY
All applicants, including fiscal agents and school-affiliated groups, must comply with the following:
• Nonprofit Status: Applicants must be recognized as nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations by the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) or the California State Franchise Tax Board. A complete Statement of Information should be on file with
the California Secretary of State. This statement should be filed within the first 90 days of incorporation and updated
in accordance with state law.
• Tax Identification: Applicants must provide their Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) from the IRS.
Information will be checked through GuideStar’s Charity Check.
• PLEASE NOTE: all organizations, including schools, must submit the names and contact information for the authorized
signatories. Applications that do not identify the correct signatories for an organization or school will not be accepted.
• Specific exemptions for Educational Institutions: Educational institutions are exempt from the need for tax-exempt
status under Section 501(c)(3) but are still eligible to apply.
• Partnership Projects: For projects involving partnerships, only one application is allowed. If a school partners with an
arts organization or artist, a signed agreement between the parties is required, with the school as the lead applicant.
APPLICATION PROCESS
When applying, organizations must ensure the following:
• Proof of nonprofit status: Provide evidence of nonprofit status or details of a fiscal agent.
• Statement of Information: Submit a current California Statement of Information reflecting Active Status, along with a
list of Authorized Signatories, their signing authority, and the type of authority (individual or joint).
GUIDELINE APPENDICES
• Appendix 1 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
• Appendix 2 – Ineligible Organizations and Activities
FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 FUNDING CATEGORIES
Funding is structured by the classification of each organization, then according to available categories. Applicants may only
apply to one category per grant cycle:
• Arts Organizations or Fiscal Agents of Organizations - $7,500 maximum award per grant
• Emerging Arts Organizations - $5,000 maximum award per grant
• Educational Institutions and Affiliated Groups (Arts in Schools) - $3,500 maximum award per grant. Three (3) grants
maximum per school site per year.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 19 of 25
3
ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
• Arts organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for at least three years as of Jan. 1, 2025.
• Applicants may only submit one (1) application per funding cycle and cannot apply to multiple categories.
• Arts organizations grants - $7,500 maximum award per grant.
• All arts projects require the participation of a professional artist or an outside subject matter expert.
• Arts projects will be defined as programs, activities, and events primarily designed to be arts focused. These projects may
be presented in person, or virtually if any government issued health mandates are in effect.
• Arts project grants awards must be used for specific art project support and cannot be used for general operating support.
EMERGING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
• Emerging arts organization must be based in Carlsbad, CA.
• These grants are for smaller nonprofit organizations that are relatively new to the nonprofit community.
• Emerging arts organizations - $5,000 maximum award per grant.
• Must have a nonprofit 501(c)(3) status of three (3) years or less.
o If 501(c)(3) status has not yet been attained, please provide proof of acting in alignment with the IRS definition of a
nonprofit: possessing a nonprofit established mission, an advisory committee or a board of directors, and a history of
activities directly related to the purpose of eligibility to attain nonprofit status.
o Additionally, emerging arts organizations aspiring to a nonprofit status must apply through a fiscal agent.
o Fiscal agents will be responsible for receiving awarded funds and dispersing them with a service fee of no more than
10% of the amount awarded to the applicant.
• Projects must take place in Carlsbad, CA and be accessible to the public, and benefit the community of Carlsbad.
• Projects must be representative of at least one of the following mediums/forms of artistic expression:
o Dance
o Original music composition/lyrics
o Spoken word/poetry
o Visual Arts that utilize sustainable or recycled materials
FISCAL AGENT REQUIREMENTS
o Individuals or organizations in the process of applying for nonprofit status may apply through a fiscal agent.
o Any partnership between an individual, educational institution or organization must include a letter of agreement from
the partnering entities.
o Fiscal agents will be responsible for receiving awarded funds and dispersing them with a service fee of no more than
10% of the amount awarded to the applicant.
o Organizations that act as fiscal agents are still eligible to apply for a Community Arts Grants for their organization.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND AFFILIATED GROUPS – ARTS IN SCHOOLS
• Arts in Schools requests are only available to nonprofit schools or school-affiliated groups in Carlsbad, CA.
• Arts in Schools are defined as programs, activities, and events that are primarily designed to be arts focused.
• Arts in Schools grants - $3,500 maximum award per grant with a maximum of three (3) grants per school site per year.
• Individual schools and entities representing a school (such as foundations, booster organizations etc.) can submit a
maximum of three (3) grant applications from the categories below. See FAQ’s for further information on acceptable
categories:
o Performing arts
o Visual arts
o Nontraditional arts, such as culinary, digital, creative writing, etc.
o STEAM projects with a focus on the arts
o Arts initiatives focused on arts careers and development of arts skills. Can include arts management, non-performance
skills such as design, costuming, stagecraft, career talks or coaching by subject matter experts
o All three (3) submissions cannot be from a single art form within a category. (e.g. three dance projects in performing
arts)
• In-school grant projects utilizing teaching artists as part of the grant may not use a full-time hourly or salaried employee(s)
of the respective school district to lead activities, performances, or projects; however, they may utilize teaching artists
employed by other school districts.
o Out-of-school programs utilizing teaching artists as part of the grant may utilize teaching artists that are employed by
any school district.
• All partnerships must include a signed letter of agreement from the partnering entities.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 20 of 25
4
APPLICANT INFORMATION
FY 2025-26 Grant Cycle Schedule
Feb. 10, 2025 Applications Open
Feb. 18, 2025 Applicant Workshop virtual.
Feb. 18 - Feb. 28, 2025 Technical assistance meetings available by appointment
Mar. 17, 2025 Application Deadline: applications must be submitted electronically to City by 11:59 p.m.
Mar. 24 – Apr. 21, 2025 Submitted materials are reviewed and scored by a peer panel consisting of local and regional artists,
arts professionals, and educators
May 1, 2025 Funding plan presented to Arts Commission for review and approval
May 12- June 30, 2025 Begin email notifications to Grantees of award and City create and route DocuSign agreements for
electronic signatures.
Sept. 2, 2025 Project/activity period opens.
Sept. 2, 2026 Project/activity period closes.
Oct. 2, 2026 All FY 2025-26 Final Reports are due. Grantees complete a Final Report within 30 days of the program
end date or by Oct. 2, 2026, whichever comes first.
APPLICANT WORKSHOPS AND ONE-ON-ONE APPOINTMENTS
Application information and links, including online tutorials, will be available on the Community Arts Grants application portal. The
following resources will be available for applicants in the fiscal year 2025-26 cycle:
• The applicant workshop will include a general overview of the grant process, application and procedures. New applicants
are required to attend.
• Technical Assistance Meetings – Applicants may schedule a 30-minute appointment with grant program staff to answer
questions about the process, application or other topics. These appointments will be dependent on staff capacity and
availability. Applicants are required to attend the Applicant Workshop prior to the appointment. To schedule a one-on-one appointment, please call Cultural Arts office at 442-339-2090 or email Arts@carlsbadca.gov
• Please note that staff will review applications for effective and impactful delivery of information and ensure completeness
and clarity of the information supplied. Staff will not provide feedback on content, programming, or other project details.
PANEL REVIEW AND SCORING OF APPLICATIONS
Submitted applications are reviewed and scored by a virtual peer panel of local and regional artists, arts professionals, and
educators. The panelists’ scoring will inform a funding plan for review and final approval by the Carlsbad Arts Commission. SCORING RUBRIC FOR ALL CATEGORIES (EXCEPT EMERGING ARTISTS)
Application scores will be based on the following criteria aligned with the Community Arts Grants mission. Panelists will be asked to
undertake the following scoring recommendations and directives:
• Panelists will score applications on how closely the project(s) achieve the goals of the respective grant category.
• Panelists may be asked to convene to discuss the application’s merits.
• Award amounts are determined via a formula that takes into consideration the total amount of available funds, the average
scores of the applicants, and an assigned percentage based on those scores.
The scoring of applications will be based on the following criteria, with a maximum score of 50 points. The provided examples are for
informational purposes only and are not meant to be exhaustive:
• Quality of Program(s) (10 points)
o Reinforce accessible artistic and cultural opportunities and experiences for Carlsbad residents.
o Provide arts education and lifelong learning opportunities for all ages.
• Community Impact (30 points)
o Celebrate and promote Carlsbad as an exciting, vibrant, and creative destination for our community, students, as well
as visitors and tourists throughout the world.
o Support local and regional arts and cultural organizations as an important component of the economy and quality of
life in Carlsbad and North San Diego County.
o Accessibility of program for participants and audience members, including economic limitations under the Americans
with Disabilities Act.
• Encouragement of programs that promote the representation and participation of diverse groups of individuals, including
and not limited to people of differing abilities, class, generations, ethnicities and races, gender identities, religious or
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 21 of 25
5
spiritual beliefs, sexual orientations and veteran status.
• Organizational Capacity (10 points)
o Provide evidence of organizational strength and capacity to support the scope of the project/activity.
OTHER REVIEW AND SCORING INFORMATION
• Cultural Arts Office staff will review applications after the deadline.
• Applications deemed eligible will be forwarded to scoring panelists and reviewed within the context of the project or
program as outlined in the application.
• Incomplete applications, or applications with incorrect information, will be deemed ineligible.
AGREEMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTEES
Upon approval of your application:
• Legal Agreement with the City of Carlsbad: To proceed with your project, you must first enter into a legal agreement with
the City of Carlsbad. City will route the agreement using DocuSign to obtain secure electronic signatures, and the
commencement of your project is contingent upon the execution of this agreement.
• Non-Profit Corporation Signing Authorities: All agreements MUST be signed by two officers listed on the Statement of
Information filed with the California Secretary of State for your organization (or as listed on the most recent board roster).
These officers should be those who are authorized to enter into legally binding agreements on behalf of your organization,
such as CEO, CFO, Treasurer, Secretary.
One corporate officer from each of the following groups must sign the agreement:
Group A Group B
Chairman, Secretary,
President, or Assistant Secretary,
Vice-President CFO or Assistant Treasurer
Otherwise, the corporation must attach a resolution certified by the secretary or assistant secretary under corporate seal
empowering the officer(s) signing to bind the corporation.
You can verify your status with the California Secretary of State and see the officers listed on the Statement of Information at this
website: Search | California Secretary of State. Further documentation of signature authorization will be requested if the most
recent Statement of Information has not been filed.
Specific Entity Requirements:
o Fiscal Agents: The agreement must be signed by two officers from the fiscal agent’s organization, as per organization’s
Statement of Information.
o Educational Institutions: A Signature Delegation Form must be completed by the school principal and a district
representative (e.g., Assistant Superintendent).
o School-Affiliated Groups (i.e., school booster groups): Follow the same signature requirements as nonprofit
organizations.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Applicants who have been granted funding in previous cycles must meet all requirements from those past
agreements before they are eligible to receive a new agreement for the FY 2025-26 cycle.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Grant recipients are required to maintain three (3) years of accounts, records and evidence pertaining to costs incurred and
revenues acquired under the respective grant program. Grantees should be able to provide upon request:
• Accurate, current and complete disclosure of revenue and expenses for the project.
• Records that adequately identify the sources and application of funds for grant sponsored activities.
• Accounting records supported by source documentation – invoices, receipts, bank statements, etc.
• All awardees must provide documents within thirty (30) days of receipt of request. This includes but is not limited to,
agreements, revised project forms, final reports, and financial accounting.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 22 of 25
6
PUBLIC ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
• Grant recipients must acknowledge the Cultural Arts Office for its support of the project in printed, electronic and/or
broadcast promotions.
• The following acknowledgment along with a City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts logo must appear on all printed and electronic
materials: “This program is funded in part by the City of Carlsbad’s Cultural Arts Office.” This logo and guidelines for
acknowledgment are available on the Community Arts Grants webpage or upon request.
• Grantees who fail to provide public acknowledgment may be denied future project funding.
PROMOTION BY CITY
• Grantees are required to keep the Cultural Arts Office informed of all program dates and times.
• If the grantee wishes to participate in promotion through approved city channels, they may opt-in as part of the agreement.
All participation in promotion through the city’s social media channels and other outlets, is subject to staff review, editing
and approval prior to promotion.
• Grantees are encouraged and expected to:
o Give notifications and invitations to the Cultural Arts Office staff that will be extended to the Carlsbad Arts Commission
at least two (2) weeks in advance of program.
o Extensively promote funded events and projects with appropriate verbiage as indicated in “Public Acknowledgement”
stipulated above.
FINAL REPORTS, SITE VISITS AND PROGRAM ATTENDANCE
The Cultural Arts staff may monitor grant projects during the grant cycle, including potential site visits. The reports of these visits will
be included in grant application files and may provide a basis for evaluation of future requests.
Grantees will have an option to replace digitally submitted final reports with in-person site visits and/or interviews. Pending any
health and safety mandates and protocols as outlined by state, county, local or other governmental bodies, these site visits/
interviews may be conducted by Cultural Arts staff and/or Arts Commissioner(s), as available, and appropriate to each grant.
Grantees may still opt to submit on-line final reports in consultation with staff. In all cases, grantees will still be required to submit
final budget forms digitally for staff review and approval.
All final reports are due within thirty (30) days of the completion of the event or Oct. 2, 2026, whichever comes first, to receive the
final award payment. Excessively late submission of a final report may result in action taken per contract.
ASSISTANCE
Cultural Arts Office staff are always available to assist applicants. Please contact Cultural Arts office at 442-339-2090 or email
Arts@carlsbadca.gov.
POLICIES
• Once submitted, applications may be moved into a different category at the discretion of Cultural Arts staff. Notification will
be made to the applicant.
• The City of Carlsbad reserves the right to limit funding amounts to any applicant, regardless of eligibility or panel score,
based on fiscal year limitations.
• Cultural Arts Office staff actively review and evaluate all aspects of the funding program and process. Updates may occur
throughout the funding calendar. Cultural Arts staff will provide information on program updates, to all grantees when they
are implemented.
• Any significant changes or amendments by the grantee to approved projects must be submitted in writing to the Cultural
Arts Office by the grantee before any grant funds are used, and before the execution of any altered activity. This includes,
but is not limited to, changes in purpose, scope, services, target audiences, intended timeline, personnel, location, date,
activities, or budget. This requirement will be included in the agreement.
• The Cultural Arts Office reserves the right to review, cancel or reallocate project funds significantly altered or shifted from
stated goals in the original approved application and/or revised project form. Canceled funds must be returned to the
Cultural Arts Office within thirty (30) days of written notification.
• No two (2) entities (organization or school/affiliated groups) may apply for funding for the same project.
• Applicants may only apply to one (1) category per funding cycle.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 23 of 25
7
OTHER INFORMATION
Carlsbad Arts Commission Meetings:
Carlsbad Arts Commission meetings are public, and information is available on the city website. A meeting is scheduled for
May 1, 2025, to approve the FY 2025-26 Community Arts Grants Funding Plan. For more information about the duties of the
Carlsbad Arts Commission and its meetings, visit the Arts Commission webpage.
HOW TO APPLY
Application
All applications must be submitted online. The application is comprised of approximately five (5) main sections, some of which
include long-answer sections and attachments. The application is available at the Community Arts Grants webpage.
• Organization Information: An updated Statement of Information and approved signatories must be submitted for
applications to be accepted.
• Project Information and Narrative
• Project Support Information
• Budget: A budget form and sample can be found at the Community Arts Grants webpage.
• Signatory Information as described in the section titled “Agreement Requirements for Grantees.”
APPENDIX 1: COMMUNITY ARTS GRANTS FAQ’S
Are there any organizations that are ineligible to receive Community Arts Grant funding?
Yes. For-profit organizations are ineligible to receive funding through the Community Arts Grants program. This includes for-profit
schools and businesses.
Can I apply to more than one category?
No. Unlike previous grant cycles, artists and organizations may only apply to one (1) category per fiscal year grant cycle.
What projects are eligible for the Emerging Arts Organization category?
Projects must be representative of at least one of the following mediums/forms of artistic expression:
o Dance
o Original music composition/lyrics
o Spoken word/poetry
o Visual Arts using sustainable or recycled materials
o Ethnic or indigenous art forms
o Digital art forms such as film, animation, etc.
What arts organizations qualify to apply in the Emerging Arts Organization category?
• Arts Organization must be based in Carlsbad.
• Must have a nonprofit 501(c)(3) status of three (3) years or less:
• If 501(c)(3) status has not yet been attained, please provide proof of acting in alignment with the IRS definition of a
nonprofit; possessing a nonprofit established mission, an advisory committee or a board of directors, and a history of
activities directly related to the purpose of eligibility to attain a nonprofit status.
• Additionally, emerging arts organizations aspiring to a nonprofit status must apply through a fiscal agent.
Is attendance required for the workshops and information sessions?
Workshop attendance or technical assistance meeting is required for all new applicants and those applying in the Emerging Arts
Organization category. Workshop attendance or technical assistance meetings by returning awardees is highly recommended as an
opportunity for staff to guide and assist applicants in the FY 2025-26 Community Arts Grants application process.
How are final awards decided?
All award amount decisions consider the total amount of funding available, scores from panelists, and the request from the applying
entity. After panelists score, Cultural Arts staff will create a funding plan based on these factors, which is forwarded to the Arts
Commission for final approval.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 24 of 25
8
Can one school site apply for multiple educational institutions (or Arts in Schools) grants?
Yes. Individual schools and entities representing a school (such as foundations, booster organizations etc.) can submit a maximum of
three (3) grant applications per educational institution amongst the list below; all three (3) submissions cannot be from a single
medium.
Examples of acceptable mediums:
• Performing arts
• Visual arts
• Nontraditional arts, such as culinary, digital, creative writing, etc.
• STEAM projects with a focus on the arts
• Arts initiatives focused on arts careers and development of arts skills. Can include arts management, non-performance skills
such as design, costuming, stagecraft, career talks or coaching by subject matter experts
• All three (3) submissions cannot be from a single art form within a category. (e.g. three dance projects in performing arts)
APPENDIX 2: INELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
The City of Carlsbad will NOT award Community Arts Grants to:
• For-profit organizations, schools, and businesses.
• Organizations and/or affiliates that are directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on
behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.
• Governmental agencies or public authorities.
• Applicants that have a “delinquent” status with the Community Arts Grants funding programs.
• Retroactive funding for completed activities.
• Religious and/or sectarian programming or any programming and/or services solely for the promotion of or consumption by
a specific religious order and/or sect.
• Cash reserves or endowments of any kind. Awards are to be expended within the designated funding period.
• Capital expenditures, including construction, renovation, or purchase of real property.
• Applications that do not support nonprofit, public art activities or projects that benefit a for-profit business or activity.
• Projects through a fiscal sponsor that benefit the sponsoring organization or are an extension of the sponsoring
organization’s programs or services.
• Support groups and/or nonprofit organizations supporting city departments or facilities.
• General operating costs, including costs associated with the start-up of a new organization.
• Applications to reduce existing deficits.
Funding may NOT be used for:
• Fundraising expenses.
• Consultants who are members of an applicant’s staff or board.
• Political campaigns or lobbying activities.
• Payments to students.
• Endowments or endowment campaigns.
• Scholarships, fellowships or tuition assistance.
• Costs incurred before the start of the funded project or outside the funding period.
• Project or activities outside the City of Carlsbad limits.
• Entry fees for competitions or sponsorship fees.
• Pageants, fund-raising events, or hospitality costs.
• Private foundations or other re-granting organizations.
• Religious or doctrinal purposes, although faith-based organizations may apply for program support.
• Publication of manuscripts or compositions not created as part of a grant-supported project.
• Purchase of monetary awards, cash prizes, contributions, or donations.
• Professional development for staff and board members.
• Scholarly or academic research, tuition and activities which generate academic credit or formal study toward an academic
or professional degree.
• Creation of textbooks.
• Ongoing, recurring administrative expenses.
May 1, 2025 Item #2 Page 25 of 25
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Community Arts Grants Funding Plan
Krystal Roa, Project Manager
Library & Cultural Arts Department
May 1, 2025
2
Receive and approve Fiscal
Year 2025-26 Community
Arts Grant Funding Plan.
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
PROPOSED ACTION
3
SCORING & FUNDING AMOUNTS
RECOMMENDATION
FUNDING CATEGORIES
GRANT OVERVIEW
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
4
TOTAL AVAILABLE FUNDING: $117,128
•Art-focused programs in Carlsbad
•Tax exempt with 501 (c)(3) nonprofit status
o Fiscal Sponsor
o Education Institution
ELIGIBILITY
•80% with completed agreement
•20% with completed final report and budget
AWARD DISBURSEMENT
•Arts Organizations Or Fiscal Agents - $7,500
•Emerging Arts Organizations -$5,000
•Educational Institutions & Affiliated Groups -$3,500
FUNDING CATEGORIES
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
5
GRANT OVERVIEW
TIMELINE
FY 25-26 Grant Submissions
February 10 – March 17
Workshops & Technical Assistance
February 18 – 28
Panel Review & Scoring
March 24 – April 21
Funding Plan Review & Approval
May 1
Project Activity
Sept. 2, 2025 – Sept. 2, 2026
Final Reports
30 Days After Project
or by Oct. 2, 2026
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
Representatives from the City of Carlsbad, nonprofits, and
community members.
GRANT OVERVIEW
PANELIST
6
14 panelists reviewed and scored applications digitally
through the grants management system.
3 panelists per application
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
•Arts activities, performances, exhibitions, workshops
and residencies.
•May utilize a fiscal agent
•May not be used for general operating support or
capital expenditures.
FUNDING CATEGORIES
ARTS ORGANIZATIONS / ARTS PROJECTS
7
AWARD UP TO $7,500
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
•Organization must be based in Carlsbad
•Non-profit 501(c)(3) status of 3 years or less
•In process for non-profit status, must apply through
fiscal agent with a 501(c)(3) status.
•Projects must take place in Carlsbad, be of benefit to
Carlsbad community, and be accessible to the public.
FUNDING CATEGORIES
EMERGING ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
8
AWARD UP TO $5,000
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
Projects must be representative of one of the following
mediums/forms of artistic expression;
•Dance
•Original music composition/lyrics
•Spoken word/poetry
•Visual Arts that utilize sustainable or recycled materials
UPDATES FOR THIS YEAR
•All proposed arts project must involve a professional artist or
outside consultant in lieu of or in addition to the
applicant/teacher.
•Cap on number of applications – 3 per site.
FUNDING CATEGORIES
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND AFFILIATED GROUPS – ARTS IN SCHOOLS
9
AWARD UP TO $3,500
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
FUNDING CATEGORIES
OVERVIEW OF APPLICANTS
10
2025-26 Application Submission 28
Eligible for Evaluation 26
Total Funded 26
Amount Requested $136,100
Amount Awarded $117,128
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
11
SCORING & FUNDING AMOUNTS
FUNDING LEVELS / FUNDING AMOUNT EQUATIONS
For 2025-26, all applications 70% and over are
recommended for funding. Staff created the
structure below to work within budget.
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
SCORE LEVEL OF FUNDING
100% - 90%100%
80 - 89%85%
70 - 79%75%
Under 70%
Funding allocations were adjusted based on
the availability of the remaining funds and
aligned with the demonstrated needs of each
organization.
12
SCORING & FUNDING AMOUNTS
ARTS ORGANIZATIONS
Applications 12
Total Amount Eligible Requests $91,460
Total Amount Awarded $68,359
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
13
SCORING & FUNDING AMOUNTS
EMERGING ARTS ORGANIZATION
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
Applications 3
Total Amount Eligible Requests $15,000
Total Amount Awarded $13,000
14
SCORING & FUNDING AMOUNTS
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND AFFILIATED GROUPS – ARTS IN SCHOOLS
Applications 11
Total Amount Eligible Requests $37,140
Total Amount Awarded $35,769
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26
15
ITEM 2: CAG 2025-26