The Greene Fellowship, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing contemporary art, has announced $100,000 in total funding to be awarded to artists in Colorado and Western North Carolina during its 2026 award cycle. This expansion marks the organization's first year supporting artists in Western North Carolina, broadening its regional impact beyond its previous Colorado-exclusive focus. Two artists will be selected to receive unrestricted grants of $50,000 each, supporting their creative practice and professional career development.
The significance of this announcement lies in the substantial, unrestricted nature of the funding at a time when financial support for individual artists remains limited. Unlike project-specific grants, these awards provide artists with the autonomy to use the funds as they see fit—whether for living expenses, studio costs, materials, or other needs essential to sustaining their practice. This approach addresses a critical barrier for many artists: the challenge of securing flexible funding that supports both their art and their livelihood.
"By expanding into Western North Carolina, we are deepening our commitment to artists working in diverse regional contexts and recognizing the vital role they play in their communities," said Hannah Agosta, Executive Director of The Greene Fellowship. "Our goal is to provide flexible, trust-based funding that allows artists to maintain their autonomy and creative freedom." This regional expansion could help balance artistic investment, which often concentrates in major coastal cities, by strengthening support for artists in these specific inland and Appalachian-adjacent areas.
Beyond the financial award, fellows will receive access to mentorship opportunities, professional development resources, and community-building support. These components are designed to foster long-term growth and connection within the arts ecosystem, helping artists build sustainable careers. The fellowship's mission, founded in 2022 in memory of Bradford W. Greene, is to support visionary artists in creating meaningful work and to equip them with skills for career sustainability, contributing to a more equitable and resilient arts sector.
For artists, the immediate impact is the opportunity to apply for significant funding that can provide stability and creative freedom. For the arts industry, this expansion represents a model for regional support that could encourage similar initiatives elsewhere. Communities in Colorado and Western North Carolina may benefit from the cultural and economic contributions of supported artists. Applications are open and can be submitted through CallforEntry.org, with a deadline of January 15, 2026. Eligibility details and guidelines are available at www.greenefellowship.com.
