In early May, hundreds of organizations nationwide—including several here in Delaware—received unexpected notifications from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) rescinding previously awarded grants. The NEA cited a shift in federal funding priorities “to focus on projects that reflect the nation’s rich artistic heritage and creativity” as outlined by the President.

These rescissions are deeply troubling. They withdraw congressionally approved funding that organizations depend on to deliver critical, community-based arts programming. As Pam Breaux, President of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, noted:

“This is a crushing loss… Many community-based arts projects will shut down, and public access to the arts will shrink. A strong NEA strengthens America.”

 

NEA Support in Delaware

While these changes currently impact direct NEA grantees and regional arts organizations that make grants to organizations in Delaware, including Mid Atlantic Arts, the Delaware Division of the Arts (DDOA) remains encouraged that the federal State Arts Agency Partnership Agreements are covered by congressional mandate. This federal-state partnership provides vital support across Delaware, particularly in rural, underserved, and economically challenged communities.

However, the White House’s proposed federal budget calls for the complete elimination of the NEA, its sister agency the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. If enacted, this would significantly reduce access to the arts across Delaware.

For over 50 years, NEA support has benefited Delaware’s schools, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and artists in all three counties. In the past five years alone, the NEA has distributed $10,382,688 in federal funding, either directly or through state and regional partners, in Delaware.

 

FY2026 Delaware Grants

Currently, the DDOA does not anticipate any changes to the availability of our state FY2026 grant programs – grant applications will continue to be accepted and, at this time, deadlines remain the same.

However, due to delayed notification of the DDOA’s state arts agency partnership grant from the NEA, there may be a delay in grant award notifications, which typically occur in July, for the following FY2026 annual grant programs:

• General Operating Support
• Project Support
• Education Resource Grants
• Start Up Program

The Division recognizes the urgency and importance of timely funding notification and will work diligently to minimize any delays in issuing first payments – typically scheduled for mid-September – should NEA notification be delayed. We remain committed to supporting our grantees consistently and efficiently.

 

Why This Matters

Proposals to eliminate federal cultural agencies undermine the proven value of public investment in the arts. Congress has historically rejected such proposals and recognized that the arts:

• Contribute $1.2 trillion to the U.S. GDP and generate a $36.8 billion trade surplus
• Support 5.4 million American jobs and drive local economies through cultural tourism
• Strengthen communities with a fivefold bottom line: economic vitality, education, civic engagement, health, and cultural heritage

 

What You Can Do

While this loss of federal support may be significant, Delaware’s arts community remains resilient. Now is the time to show your support—attend events, donate to arts and culture organizations that share your values, and uplift your local arts organizations through word of mouth and social media.

We encourage you to stay informed and connected through Americans for the Arts (federal level) and the Delaware Arts Alliance (state level), which are leading advocacy efforts.

The Delaware Division of the Arts remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible arts sector for all Delawareans.