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Arts Commission unanimously approves FY 2026–27 community arts grants guidelines and calendar
Summary
The Arts Commission approved guidelines and a calendar for the FY 2026–27 community arts grants cycle, opening applications Feb. 13 through March 27 with a Feb. 18 virtual workshop; the commission approved the measure unanimously and will review recommended grantees May 7.
The Carlsbad Arts Commission unanimously approved the fiscal year 2026–27 Community Arts Grants guidelines and funding cycle calendar at its Feb. 5 meeting, clearing the application process and timeline staff proposed.
Program manager Crystal Roa presented the changes: the grants program anticipates opening Feb. 13 and closing March 27, will host a virtual workshop on Feb. 18, and will allow applicants to schedule one‑on‑one meetings with staff during the application window. Roa described three funding categories and maximum awards: arts organizations (up to $7,500), emerging arts organizations (up to $5,000) and educational institutions (up to $3,500). She told commissioners that school applicants previously noted application length and budgeting burdens; staff proposes streamlining the upfront application, shifting budget details to post‑award reporting, and using a pass/fail peer review process for initial eligibility.
Roa said the educational institutions category historically receives roughly $45,000 annually (staff presented this as an estimated allocation for that category). The application and review platform is Foundant; Roa said applicants may upload photos, videos or other supporting materials and that reviewers will use the same online system.
Commissioners asked clarifying questions about eligibility when an applicant already receives other city funding; Roa said applicants receiving other City of Carlsbad funds (for example, neighborhood or special events grants) would be ineligible for this cycle, while funding from non‑city sources would not automatically disqualify them. Commissioner Nasiri moved to approve the guidelines and calendar; Commissioner George seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Votes at a glance: the meeting also approved the Dec. 4, 2025 minutes earlier in the evening (motion moved by Commissioner Bridal, seconded by Commissioner Ferroni) by unanimous vote.
