New Opportunity for Creatives in Colorado

Creative in Colorado? 

Opportunities and Updates for Colorado Artists and Cultural Leaders

Colorado artists and cultural leaders have a wealth of opportunities to grow, connect, and support their work in the coming months. From public art calls and funding opportunities to critical industry insights and accessibility resources.

Explore funding deadlines, new programs, and resources that can help you thrive in Colorado’s creative economy.

Call For Entry: Public Artwork in Wheat Ridge

The City of Wheat Ridge is seeking artists and artist teams to create site-specific public artwork for The Green at 38th, a newly re-designed event and festival park located between Upham and High Street. This is a prime opportunity for artists to showcase their work in a vibrant public space. Apply by January 27, 2025.

Apply to the Chinook Fund

Artists and cultural leaders can apply for grants ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 through the Chinook Fund. These awards support impactful work that drives community change. Applications are due February 13, 2025.

Call For Entry: Douglas County’s Art Encounters

Douglas County invites proposals for its year-long outdoor sculpture exhibit, Art Encounters. Selected sculptures will be displayed in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree Library, Parker, and Roxborough, offering high visibility and community engagement. Submit proposals by February 15, 2025.

Walking Together Program by U.S. Regional Arts Organization

The Walking Together program supports community-rooted traditional arts practices in communities of color with awards ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. This program provides funding to foster creativity and cultural expression. Apply by March 19, 2025.

The State of Live: NIVA’s Research Study

The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) has launched The State of Live, the first-ever national economic research study of the independent live entertainment sector. This study aims to quantify the sector’s economic impact while identifying challenges to its survival. Take the survey by February 18, 2025.

Fire Recovery Resources by Creative West

Creative West has compiled a comprehensive guide for individuals and communities affected by the California fires. This resource offers practical tools and information, particularly relevant for residents in fire-prone areas like Colorado. Access the guide here.

National Endowment for the Arts Report on Disabled Artists

The National Endowment for the Arts has released Voices from the Field: How Can the Arts Sector Make a Better Environment for Disabled Artists? This report outlines actionable steps to improve accessibility and inclusivity within the arts sector. Read the full report.

Accessibility and Belonging

Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) remains dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility across all its programs and initiatives. Artists, organizations, and stakeholders can explore CCI’s Accessibility and Belonging resource page for tools to create inclusive spaces that foster a thriving creative economy.

For accommodations, contact Katy Zeigler at kathryn.zeigler@state.co.us.

Stay connected to these opportunities to ensure your work contributes to Colorado’s vibrant cultural landscape. Visit Colorado Creative Industries for more details.

Upcoming Opportunities from Colorado Creative Industries

Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) offers an exciting lineup of grants, events, and programs designed to support artists, cultural organizations, and community leaders. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of opportunities to help you plan ahead:

January

CCI Summit: Way Out West

Discounted early-bird registration for the CCI Summit: Way Out West is available from January 24 through March 31, 2025. This premier event gathers creative leaders from across the state to share ideas, network, and collaborate.

February

Community Revitalization Tax Credit (CRTC)

The CRTC pre-qualifying application opens February 3 and closes March 10, 2025. This tax credit program incentivizes investment in revitalization projects. Learn more during the virtual info session on February 10 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Folk and Traditional Arts (FTA) Grant

The FTA grant opens February 10 and closes April 11, 2025, offering support for community-rooted traditional arts projects. Attend the info session on February 27 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. to learn how to apply.

March

Colorado Creates Grant

Applications for the Colorado Creates grant open March 3 and close May 14, 2025. This grant funds arts and cultural projects that contribute to Colorado’s creative economy. An info session will be held on March 25 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

Poetry Out Loud State Competition

The state competition for Poetry Out Loud will take place March 16-17, 2025. This event celebrates the power of spoken word and poetry, showcasing Colorado’s top young poets.

May

CCI Summit: Way Out West

The CCI Summit will be held May 1-2, 2025, in Grand Junction, CO. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Colorado’s creative leaders and engage in thought-provoking sessions.

June

Colorado Change Leader Program

Applications for the Colorado Change Leader Program open in summer 2025. This program equips participants with the skills needed to drive change in their communities through creativity and leadership.

Stay updated on these opportunities by visiting Colorado Creative Industries.