Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant

The Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant is an annual funding opportunity established by the WindSwell Foundation to support inclusive arts programming in Northeast Indiana. WindSwell Foundation’s mission centers on empowering individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities to live independently, fully engage with their communities, and reach their highest potential. The Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant reflects this mission by supporting innovative arts projects that increase accessibility and participation among disabled individuals in local arts communities. This grant specifically supports new programs or special projects that actively include and engage individuals with disabilities in the arts. Funding is intended for either programming or capital expenses related to these initiatives. The grant does not support general operating expenses or indirect costs unrelated to the inclusive arts project. Proposals may focus on a small or large target population, and projects with strong collaborative models are encouraged. Applications must demonstrate a strong potential for impact and, for ongoing programs, should include a detailed sustainability plan outlining how the work will be continued beyond the grant period. Applicants must be located within Northeast Indiana and must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Individuals are not eligible to apply directly but may partner with a qualified nonprofit to submit a joint application. Each organization may only receive one Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant as a primary applicant, which limits repeat awards in successive years to encourage broader access across the region. The grant awards up to $25,000 per project. The funding cycle occurs annually, with the application period opening on the first Friday of May and closing on the last Friday of September. Awards are announced in mid-November, aligning with the WindSwell Foundation’s Fall grantmaking cycle. The process begins by reviewing the requirements listed in the program details and then contacting Andie Mosley for application deadline confirmation. Applicants must apply through the WindSwell Foundation’s online grant portal by creating or logging into an account. Evaluation criteria emphasize the proposed project’s inclusivity, anticipated impact, collaborative partnerships, and potential for sustainability. The foundation encourages organizations working at all scales—from small community-based groups to larger regional institutions—to submit ideas that reimagine how people with disabilities participate in the arts. Previous recipients include the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne (2019) and Gigis Playhouse (2020), showcasing a range of successful models.

Collaborations are encouraged. Projects with high impact, even if affecting small groups, will be prioritized.