1. Department of Arts Education /
  2. Creative Schools /
  3. Arts Funding Information

Creative Schools Fund

The Creative Schools Fund provides grants to schools to support increased access to a high quality arts education for every student in every grade through teacher-led arts programs in Chicago Public Schools. The Fund is the largest philanthropic investment for the arts directly into schools each year. It is a unique public-private partnership between Ingenuity and Chicago Public Schools.

CSF Grant Information for SY26-27

SY26-27 Creative Schools Fund Grant Applications are now open. The application deadline is September 25, 2026. You can access grant guidelines and the two types of competitive grants for SY26-27. Schools can apply for both and receive both grant types. 

Partnership Residency Grants 

  • Up to $10,000
  • 1 application per school
  • Schools must work in collaboration with an arts organization or independent teaching artist

Arts Teacher Grants 

  • Up to $5,000
  • Special Project Grants for arts teachers
  • 1 application per arts teacher

Grant Guidelines

Grant Guidelines

Grant Application

Due on September 25, 2026

Grant Application

Grant Inquiries

Meanwhile, any questions, concerns, or feedback regarding the Creative Schools Fund grant should be directed to csf@ingenuity-inc.org and/or jarodrigue@cps.edu.

CPS Department of Arts Education

773-553-2170

cpsarts@cps.edu

42 W. Madison St, 14th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602