The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), in partnership with Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA), is pleased to announce the 2026 Creative Forces® Community Engagement grant recipients. In total, 48 organizations will receive grants ranging from $4,669 to $25,000, totaling $888,413. These community-based projects address the distinct experiences, challenges, and strengths of military-connected individuals and expand arts engagement opportunities for military-connected people in communities across the country. See the directory for a complete list of recipients and projects.
“The National Endowment for the Arts is honored to support these Creative Forces Community Engagement grant projects, which use the arts to strengthen connections and enhance the lives of military service members, veterans, their families, and caregivers,” said Mary Anne Carter, chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. “Through these efforts, organizations across the country are creating welcoming spaces where military-connected individuals can connect, express themselves, and share their stories through the arts, while recognizing and honoring the dedication and sacrifices of those who have served our nation.”
“Creative Forces recognizes that the arts can play a powerful role in health and well-being—not only by fostering creative expression, but by strengthening the relationships and sense of belonging that help people and communities thrive,” said Todd Stein, president and CEO of Mid-America Arts Alliance. “These community-based partnerships offer military service members, veterans, families, and caregivers opportunities to build resilience, navigate transitions, and forge lasting connections through the arts. We’re proud to partner with the National Endowment for the Arts to expand this work in communities across the country.”
Creative Forces Community Engagement projects support non-clinical arts programming in a variety of settings for military-connected individuals. Each grant project includes at least two organizations or artists working together to carry out project goals. Matching grants support activities that will take place over the course of the next year.