Grants for Playwrights
There are different types of grants available to playwrights. Grants come from a variety of sources. Some are funded by foundations, public and private, others are funded by different states specifically for their citizens, and some are available from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal program.
State Grants
Many states offer grants for playwrights. Some are for specific types of plays with specific genres or lengths. Your state's cultural office or arts office will have information including due dates.
Foundations
Some foundations are location specific. The McKnight Foundation offers grants to Minnesota residents and the Hewlett grant offers funds to residents of San Francisco. The Princess Grace Awards has a category for playwrights and is not location-specific. (See References)
National New Play Network
The Network funds various theaters throughout the country. Playwrights can submit to the theaters that are sponsored. There is also a residency program. The applicant must have graduated from an MFA program within 18 months of application. (See Resources)
National Endowment for the Arts
The National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency. Grants are available for playwrights and musical theater. Deadlines for different grants vary. (See References)
Sundance
The Sundance Institute offers a development program for playwrights. The Sundance Theater Laboratory sponsors a nine-day mentoring residency.
