Prince William County announced on March 30 that the application period for its fiscal year 2027 arts grants will begin on April 9 at 9:00 am. A mandatory workshop for first-time applicants and grant writers is scheduled for April 8 at the Department of Parks and Recreation Headquarters in George Hellwig Memorial Park.
The grant program aims to support nonprofit arts organizations throughout Prince William County, including the City of Manassas and Manassas Park. The county said all interested organizations are encouraged to attend the workshop and apply for funding, with applications due by April 30 at 4:00 pm. Grant funds may be used between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027.
Two types of grants are available: the General Operating Grant and the New & Emerging Grant. Applicants may only apply for one type of grant per cycle. The General Operating Grant provides core operating support to established organizations with artistic merit, while the New & Emerging Grant offers seed money to groups less than three years old.
Eligibility requirements differ by grant type. Organizations seeking a General Operating Grant must have nonprofit status under section 501(c)3, be registered with Guidestar.org, operate within Greater Prince William Area boundaries, and meet other basic eligibility criteria as outlined in county policies. Those applying for a New & Emerging Grant must have been established within three years or less, have applied for nonprofit status under section 501(c)3, comply with non-discrimination laws, and meet additional eligibility standards set by county policy.
The county stated that priority consideration will be given to new organizations demonstrating high artistic quality, effective management practices, fundraising capability, and community engagement.
