In a move to directly boost the creative community, the City of Sacramento has unveiled the Creative Growth Fellowship. This innovative program is putting more than $2 million in the pockets of local artists. Starting in June 2025, artists within the city limits can apply for a slice of this financial pie, aimed at supplementing their income and fuelling their artistic endeavors for a full year, as reported by the Sacramento City Express.
A tidy $850 per month for a year, maxing out to $10,200, for up to 200 artists in various disciplines. To be eligible, you've got to be 18 or older, actively working in an eligible art sector—think craft, dance, visual arts, among others—and a resident within Sacramento's borders. Melissa Cirone from the Office of Arts and Culture suggests artists should begin to carefully prepare now to submit the strongest application possible when the time comes, as detailed by the Sacramento City Express.
The fellowship is a gleaming outcome of the City Council's efforts, funneling funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), to light a fire under Sacramento's creative economy. This economy took a big hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, and now's the chance for a much-needed comeback. Details of this opportunity, according to the Sacramento City Express, include an application period opening in June with a fellowship stretch from August 2025 through July 2026.
Check out the program guidelines—available in English and Spanish—on the Sacramento City Express website. Begin working on your application, gather your work samples, and don’t forget to join the orientation webinar on May 19 at 4 p.m. for tips on how to apply. The early release of the guidelines gives artists more time to prepare. If you have questions about eligibility or need more info, email [email protected]. You can also sign up for updates from the Office of Arts and Culture on their website.
