• South Dakota resident for at least one year prior to the deadline
• 18 years or older
• Not enrolled full-time in a degree program
• Applying as an individual artist (not an organization)

All applicants must submit:

• Completed application form
• Artist bio & statement
• Proposal narrative (based on grant type)
• Work samples & work sample list
• Résumé or CV (required) — 1–2 pages; sample template available online

Provide your best, most recent work. Label all files clearly and include a brief list describing each work:

• Visual: 5–10 images
• Music/Performance/Dance: up to 5 files (10 minutes total)
• Literary: up to 10 pages
• Film/Media: up to 10 minutes combined

Review the rubric for your grant type (Career, Collaboration, or Fellowship) to understand what panelists look for in each category.
Applications are reviewed by a panel of arts professionals using two criteria:

• Artistic Merit (50%) – Your artistic identity, commitment, and impact.
• Artistic Excellence (50%) – The quality, skill, and creativity shown in your work.

• Write in clear, direct language—avoid jargon.
• Focus on why this support matters for your growth.
• Choose work samples that show your best and most recent work.
• Connect your goals to your artistic practice and community.

Artist Grant Application Resources >