The Donald G. Gardner Humanities Trust is happy to announce that the 2026 spring grant round is now open with applications due by midnight Wednesday, March 25.
Applications must be submitted through the online application process available at www.gardnertrust.org.
Artists and groups can apply for grants in the following categories: Individual Artist Grants encourage developing and established artists with funding of up to $1,000 to take advantage of an impending, concrete opportunity.
Organization Project Grants with funding up to $2,000 support activities in the fine arts and for the Ely Public Library. Grant support is intended to make it possible for organizations to present or produce a fine arts activity.
Youth Grants are awarded to Ely school students in grades six-12 who have an interest in and demonstrate high motivation in the fine arts. Youth grants of up to $750 can be used for workshops, classes, lessons or mentorships.
Scholarships are available for graduates of Ely Memorial High School who are in their third or fourth year of college studies or in graduate school. Trust scholarships are awarded to students majoring in one of the disciplines of fine arts or library science.
The trust has budgeted $4,750 for individuals (youth grants, individual artist grants, and scholarships) and $10,000 for organizations (project and operation grants) for this grant round.
Individuals and organizations that would like to have a draft application reviewed should contact Peter Schamber, Executive Director, by March 20. Office hours for the grant period are Thursdays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the trust office at city hall or applicants can arrange an appointment for another time by emailing [email protected] (preferred) or calling 218-365-2639.
The purpose of the trust shall be for the enhancement, growth and improvement of: 1. The Ely Public Library, 2. The arts and artisans of Ely and surrounding area, to include the performing arts, the visual arts and literature, 3. The creating and funding of scholarships, educational and artistic grants, 4. The cultural and aesthetic environment of the city of Ely and its surrounding area.
