Mid Atlantic Presenter Initiatives (MAPI) Guidelines
Support for public performances and community engagement projects presented by small and mid-sized arts organizations across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Application Deadline
April 30, 2026
April 30, 2026
Project Period
Sept. 1, 2026 – Dec. 31, 2027
Sept. 1, 2026 – Dec. 31, 2027
Grant Amount
Up to 50% of artist's fee (max $5,000)
Up to 50% of artist's fee (max $5,000)
Additional Support
Up to $2,000 (eligible states only)
Up to $2,000 (eligible states only)
Budget Limit
Under $3 million*
Under $3 million*
Required Activities
1 Public Performance
+
1 Community Engagement Activity
1 Public Performance
+
1 Community Engagement Activity
Accessibility
To request accommodation during any phase of your application process, reach out to Program Director, Performing Arts and Accessibility Coordinator Sarah Lewitus at slewitus@midatlanticarts.org or call 410-539-6656 X 110.
Can I Apply?
- Your organization is located in an eligible Mid-Atlantic state or jurisdiction.
- You are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) or eligible government entity.
- Your operating budget is under $3 million.*
- You have a valid SAM.gov UEI.
- You are in good standing with Mid Atlantic Arts.
- You are applying to only ONE eligible Mid Atlantic Arts opportunity this cycle.
Exception
*Organizations that participated in ArtsCONNECT or Special Presenter Initiatives during FY24–FY26 may still qualify even if their operating budget exceeds $3 million.
*Organizations that participated in ArtsCONNECT or Special Presenter Initiatives during FY24–FY26 may still qualify even if their operating budget exceeds $3 million.
What Projects Qualify?
Required Performance
At least one public performance that is open to the general public.Community Engagement
Workshop, masterclass, residency, panel discussion, Q&A, lecture, or similar activity.Project Dates
Activities must occur between September 1, 2026 and December 31, 2027.Not Eligible
Fundraisers and performances that primarily serve non-public audiences.Funding Available
| Organization Location | Artist Fee Support | Additional Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| DC, DE, PR, USVI, WV | Up to 50% (maximum $5,000) | Up to $2,000 |
| MD, NJ, NY, PA, VA | Up to 50% (maximum $5,000) | Not available |
Matching Requirement
- Minimum request: $1,000
- 1:1 match required
- Federal funds cannot be used as matching funds
Application Checklist
- Confirm eligibility
- Select your artist/company
- Prepare the Letter of Intent
- Finalize your project budget
- Confirm your UEI number
- Gather required documents
- Complete online application
- Submit before April 30, 2026
How Applications Are Reviewed
Mission Impact
Clear connection to your organization's mission and achievable planning.Artistry
High artistic quality and meaningful creative work.Community Benefit
Meaningful engagement with local communities.Access
Thoughtful efforts to reduce barriers and reach underserved audiences.Timeline
April 30
Application Deadline
May–July
Panel Review
Late July
Award Notifications
Sept. 1
Projects Begin
Dec. 31, 2027
Projects Complete
30 Days Later
Final Report Due