Foundation for Arts Initiatives (FfAI) — $10,000 grant for artists, curators, and independent researchers
Not all arts grants are aimed at creating new works, organising exhibitions or participating in residencies. Some programmes support the research process itself — travel, archival work, exploring artistic scenes in other countries, and independent immersion in specific themes and contexts. This programme is specifically geared towards such independent research practices — flexible, self-directed and unbound by institutional frameworks.
The organisation provides individual grants of $10,000 for artists, curators and researchers in the field ofvisual arts. The support is intended for independent research and related travel, not tied to universities, institutions, residencies or professional commitments.
What is supported
The programme is suitable for:
— independent artistic and curatorial research;
— the study of archives and cultural contexts;
— research trips;
— projects related to rethinking institutional frameworks, communities and cultural solidarity;
— projects addressing issues of censorship, social conflict, restrictions on rights and cultural isolation.
Particular attention is given to initiatives related to alternative cultural structures, archives, public practices and new ways of interacting within the artistic community.
What is not supported
The grant is not intended for:
— the creation of original works of art;
— participation in exhibitions;
— residencies, fellowships and academic programmes;
— symposia and seminars;
— the purchase of major equipment;
— research related to professional or institutional duties.
Furthermore, the foundation works exclusively within the field of visual arts and does not support the performing arts.
Who is this programme for
This opportunity may be of particular interest to:
— independent artists and curators;
— researchers in visual culture;
— authors working with social and political contexts;
— organisers of independent cultural initiatives;
— professionals who value the time to explore a topic independently, free from rigid institutional constraints.
For many participants, this grant offers a chance to step away from the constant production of content and focus on developing their own research approach, methodology or future project.
How to apply
The application process begins by registering an account on the Foundation’s website and completing a short online form. After registration, applicants are required to complete a short online form describing their research or project.
The form requires the following:
— a brief description of the project or research of up to 500 characters;
— a detailed description of up to 1,800 characters;
— the proposed funding period.
When applying for an institutional grant, you must also specify the total amount of funding requested.
The Foundation does not accept images, portfolios, PDF files or additional materials at the initial application stage. Once the application has been reviewed, the organisation may request further information at its discretion.
Support for Organisations
In addition to individual grants, the foundation also supports independent organisations and initiatives in the fields of visual arts and culture. Organisations may apply for funding for projects, research, infrastructure development and partial support for operating costs.
Both US-based organisations and international initiatives are eligible to apply. Organisations in the US must have 501(c)(3) status. Organisations outside the US must be officially registered and operate exclusively for educational and/or charitable purposes.
As a rule, the organisation must have an annual budget of less than $1,000,000. Institutional grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with the fund usually covering part of the budget rather than the full amount.
Following the submission of the initial application, the fund may request additional documentation confirming the organisation’s legal status and activities.
The programme does not have a fixed deadline – applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. If you do not receive a reply within four months, this means that your application has not been selected.
