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Special Awards in the Arts Program is sponsored by Gerbode Foundation. The Special Awards in the Arts Program supports the creation of new works in dance, theater production, and music composition by culturally and aesthetically diverse artists in the San Francisco Bay Area and Hawaii. These grants enable local nonprofit arts organizations to commission and produce original works, enriching Bay Area audiences.
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Special Awards in the Arts — Gerbode Foundation Special Awards in the Arts Special Awards in the Arts Since its founding in 1987, the Gerbode Foundation’s Special Awards in the Arts program has been a cornerstone in advancing new work across dance, theater, and music composition. The program champions culturally and aesthetically diverse voices—supporting emerging, mid-career, and legacy artists alike.
Through these grants, local nonprofit arts organizations have been able to commission and produce original works, while Bay Area audiences have benefited from a vibrant showcase of the region’s most innovative artists. Please click here to view Special Awards in the Arts recipients since 1987. This program is made possible with generous support from The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
Program Updates and Key Dates 2026 Music Awards round announced. Read full press release here . View and download Program Guidelines here .
Download Application Form (Word) here . Our application process is designed as a supportive, multi-stage journey— offering opportunities to learn, connect, and refine your proposal along the way. Explore & Connect: sign-up for Application Workshops + Drop-in Sessions Deep Engagement & Project Development: sign-up for 1:1 Consultations with Program Director Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 4pm (PT) Program deadline.
Application materials must be received by Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 4:00pm (PT) . Application materials must be emailed to special. awards@gerbode.
org . Gerbode Foundation staff will confirm receipt of all applications once received; there is no need to follow up. The Gerbode Foundation will celebrate 40 years of the Special Awards in the Arts program with all lead artists and organizations supported by the program.
Please include your contact email here to receive any upcoming announcements about attending the 40th-year celebration (Date and details TBD). Program Contact Information Email: special. awards@gerbode.
org
According to the current listing, eligibility includes: Visionary artists and leaders in the San Francisco Bay Area and Hawaii, focusing on projects that empower communities and advocate for social change. Non-profit local arts groups are eligible to develop and debut substantial, original works. Confirm the full requirements in the official notice before applying.
The current listing shows $2,500 to $100,000 (average $25,000). Verify award ceilings, matching requirements, and allowable costs in the official notice.
Special Awards in the Arts Program is funded by Gerbode Foundation. Verify program details on the funder's official page before applying.
This opportunity targets applicants in Hawaii. If your organization operates elsewhere, check the official notice for location requirements.
Start from the official opportunity page linked in this listing — it carries the sponsor's submission instructions.
Past winners and funding trends for this program
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