What does National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) mean?
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is an independent federal agency that provides funding and support to individuals and organizations in the creative arts across the U.S. Founded in 1965, the NEA supports projects in a variety of disciplines, including film, theater, dance, literature, and visual arts. The agency awards grants to arts organizations and individuals to help promote access to the arts for all Americans.
In addition to its grant programs, the NEA promotes arts education, fosters public-private partnerships, and helps preserve the nation’s cultural heritage. The organization plays a critical role in funding arts programs that might otherwise struggle to find support, especially in underserved communities.
Example:An independent filmmaker receives a grant from the NEA to complete a documentary highlighting social justice issues in a local community.
Example: A regional theater company is able to continue producing new works thanks to a grant from the NEA, which supports its performances and educational outreach programs.
Did You Know?
The NEA has awarded more than $5 billion in grants since its creation, funding arts projects across all 50 states!
