NEVADA CITY, CA (MPG) - Individual artists across Northern California can apply for a new round of state-funded fellowships offering awards from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications due May 6.

Nevada County Arts & Culture will administer the California Arts Council’s Upstate Individual Artists Fellowship Program, which will distribute $240,000 to artists and culture bearers in 19 counties, including Butte, Colusa, Sutter and Yuba.

The program provides unrestricted funding and recognition to artists at various stages of their careers. Awards are based on creative vision, artistic quality and community impact. Eligible disciplines include performing, visual, literary and media arts, as well as traditional, Indigenous and community-based practices. The program also includes culture bearers, defined as individuals who preserve and pass on traditional knowledge, rituals and community practices.

“Artists and culture bearers, please attend our informational session,” said Sofia Vivanco Airaghi, grants manager at Nevada County Arts & Culture. “This is an opportunity to apply for unrestricted funding designed specifically for our rural communities.”

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and based in the Upstate region. The fellowship period runs from Aug. 1 through July 30, 2027.

Grants are divided into three tiers: emerging, established and legacy artists. Funding levels vary within each tier, with a maximum award of $50,000 available to qualifying applicants in Region 1. Funds may be used for expenses such as materials, studio space, living costs or community-based projects.

Selected fellows will also participate in a cohort that provides professional development and networking opportunities with artists across the region and statewide.

In addition to applicants, the program is seeking panelists to review submissions. Selected panelists will receive a $400 stipend and review approximately 30 to 40 applications over a four- to six-week period. Applicants are not eligible to serve as panelists.

Applications must be submitted through the online portal by 11:59 p.m. May 6. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

More information and application details are available at upstateIAF.org.