The Terra Collections Grants support organizations worldwide in reinterpreting and re-presenting their permanent collections to broaden and diversify understandings of American art. Administered by the Terra Foundation for American Art, the programme prioritizes the presentation of a multiplicity of artists and themes, the inclusion of a plurality of voices, the rethinking of collections to retell local or regional histories, engagement with local communities in collaborative programming and content creation, and the broadening and deepening of access through inclusive storytelling and design.

Overview

The Terra Collections Grants are designed to help museums, art centres, and community-based cultural organizations enhance the relevance and visibility of their collections. By supporting permanent collection reinstallations or temporary exhibitions primarily drawn from an institution’s own holdings, the foundation aims to foster long-term institutional change and encourage more inclusive and expansive practices in the field of American art. The programme places strong emphasis on projects that engage with the visual arts of the United States and Indigenous arts of North America while challenging traditional narratives and expanding the understanding of American art. Collaboration with artists, scholars, and communities is encouraged to bring forward diverse perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches.

Funding and Benefits

Grant amounts range from $25,000 to $100,000 depending on the project type. Planning grants typically range between $25,000 and $75,000, while implementation grants may go up to $100,000. Funding is awarded annually, with the next round scheduled for spring 2026. Eligible costs include:

• Planning and research activities, such as hiring short-term staff, organizing convenings, travel, and advisory committees
• Interpretation, signage, and labels
• Artist fees (excluding commissions)
• Logistical expenses such as shipping, insurance, and loan fees
• Temporary gallery construction, conservation, and framing
• Rental equipment, public programmes, and marketing
• Evaluation and dissemination of research in digital or print formats
• Partial support for staff positions and indirect costs (within specified limits)
• Multilingual materials where relevant

Eligibility

Applicants must be organizations holding U.S. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or an international equivalent. Only project organizers may apply. Joint applications are required for co-organized projects. Grants are not available to individuals. Organizations that have previously received planning grants may apply for implementation funding for the same project.

The programme does not support projects involving the creation or acquisition of artworks, capital expenditures, fully online initiatives, touring exhibitions, or projects primarily composed of loans. Previously declined proposals are not eligible for reconsideration.

Application Process

The application process begins with the submission of a grant inquiry form. Selected applicants may then be invited to submit a full proposal in English, which will be reviewed by an external panel of arts professionals. Interested organizations should consult the Terra Foundation for American Art website for detailed instructions and to begin the inquiry process.

Deadline and Timeline

The closing date for applications is 02 August 2026. The post date for this opportunity is 01 April 2026. Funding is awarded annually, with the next round scheduled for spring 2026.