Calling Artists and Community-Based Organizations: Apply Now for Creative Neighborhood Grants

Local artists and community-based organizations are invited to apply online for Virginia Beach Creative Neighborhoods Grants to fund projects that beautify public spaces, celebrate local culture and engage residents in the artistic process. 

Eligible applicants include arts organizations, civic and neighborhood associations, individual artists, groups of artists, non-arts nonprofits, and community-based organizations. Businesses with project expenses associated with presenting multigenerational, free gatherings with arts components or short-term art projects in communities are also eligible. The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.

Optional Artist Workshops

Potential applicants may choose to attend a virtual workshop for an overview of the grant program and review process and to get tips for submitting an application. There are three opportunities:

• Tuesday, Nov. 18, noon
• Thursday, Dec. 11, noon
• Thursday, Jan. 8, 5 p.m. 

You may also book a virtual appointment with Lisa Wigginton, grants manager, for individual assistance.  

Volunteer Reviewers Needed

Virginia Beach residents with a passion for the arts are needed as volunteers to review grant applications. Responsibilities include attending orientation, reviewing and scoring grant applications, participating in virtual or in-person discussions and committing to three to four hours monthly in January and February 2026. If interested in serving as a panelist, apply online. For more information, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/ArtsGrants.

Additional Grants 

Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs and the Virginia Beach Arts & Humanities Commission provide several arts and cultural grant opportunities. For more information on grant information and availability, visit the Cultural Affairs grant opportunities page or email artsinfo@vbgov.com.

• Apply for Arts Grants