investing in artists: tools & equipment

The Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment program will award grants of $1,000–$5,000 to individual craft artists to purchase artistic tools and equipment that support their ability to make object-based work. This program is open to individual craft artists, folk and traditional artists, and craftspeople in the United States and its Territories, with geographic eligibility rotating over the 2024–2026 funding cycle.

The Center for Cultural Innovation (CCI) established the Investing in Artists grant portfolio in 2007 to enhance the working lives of and strengthen the creative support system for California artists working in all disciplines. From 2007–2011, and with the support of the James Irvine Foundation and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Investing in Artists awarded grants to individual artists across disciplines to acquire tools and equipment, produce new work, and develop plans for marketing and presenting creative work. In 2024, with the partnership of the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation, CCI revived Investing in Artists’ support of tools and equipment, with a new focus on the disciplines of both craft and folk, and traditional arts, and with expanded geographic eligibility across the U.S. and its Territories.

Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment will award funding through a competitive grant application process. Competitive applicants will present a clear request, demonstrate a sustained commitment to their craft discipline, and illustrate how funding will provide linchpin support, such as enabling the artist to meet demand, address safety requirements or other regulations, replace outdated or damaged equipment, or reach a higher standard of quality or craftsmanship. A total of $60,000 is available in the 2025 funding round.