Mackinac Arts Council provides grant funds for organizations and special projects that directly benefit arts and culture in the Mackinac Island community. Prospective grant applicants are encouraged to contact our offices to discuss proposals and obtain more information about the granting process. In 2026, Mackinac Arts Council announced the establishment of the Founders Fund, created to recognize and honor the profound contributions of Becki Barnwell, founder of the Mackinac Arts Council, to the arts and cultural life of Mackinac Island.

 

DEADLINE(S)

2026 grants are awarded in the Fall. Applications must be received electronically to laura@mackinacartscouncil.org by September 1 (Founders Fund) and October 1 (all other grant requests.) 

On a limited basis, emergency grants for special projects may be awarded during other parts of the year. Emergency grants must be submitted no less than 30 days prior to the date of the program for which funds are being requested.

 

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Mackinac Arts Council is most interested in projects that directly benefits arts and culture in the Mackinac Island community. Grants generally range from $100 to $1,000. High priority is given to applications that

 

• Enable an organization to carry out a specific project

• Enable a project that directly benefits the Mackinac Island community at large

• Support a project that is accessible by a wide range of demographics on Mackinac Island

• Encourage arts awareness and education among Mackinac Island youth

• Meet an existing or emerging need in arts and cultural programs on Mackinac Island

• Have a clearly defined budget, goals, narrative, and strategic plan

 

REVIEW PROCESS

All applications are reviewed by the Mackinac Arts Council board of directors at an annual meeting in the Fall of each year. Award announcements are made by email at the end of October.

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FINAL REPORTS

All grantees are required to submit a final budget and report on the outcome of funded projects no more than 90 days following the project dates as indicated on the application. All grantees receive a final report form and guidelines for submission following the dispersal of funds. Failure to submit a final report may result in organizations or individuals becoming ineligible to receive funding in future years.

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Founders Fund

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GRANT ELIGIBILITY

The grant is open to:

• Individuals of all ages

• Mackinac Island residents and seasonal employees with at least three recent years of Island experience

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Grant funds may be used for:

• Art instruction or the business aspects of art

• Tuition for online or in-person classes or seminars

• Supplies and materials

• Software

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Funds may not be used for transportation, lodging, or room and board.

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APPLICATION  REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must submit a brief essay (100 words or fewer) describing

• Their interest in the class - background

•  How the new skill or training will be applied, preferably toward a new business or creative offering

• Financial requirements*

*Applicants will be expected to cover at least 50% of the total costs.  Funds must be used within one year of award, with exceptions considered on a case-by-case basis.

Additional requirements include:

• Optional presentation to the Selection Committee during the application process

• A summary report due within six months after class completion

• Opportunity to lead a workshop in their field,  if applicable

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SELECTION PROCESS AND TIMELINE

Applications will be reviewed by a Selection Committee within the MAC Development Committee. 

Grant Cycle Calendar:

• Applications submitted: September 1 -October 1 

• Applications reviewed: October 1 – October 10

• Proposed selection presented to the Board for approval: October 11 Annual Meeting

• Award announced: by November 12