September 9, 2025 (Cape Cod, MA) – The Arts Foundation of Cape Cod is now accepting applications for its Creative Exchange Capacity-Building Program, an initiative that gives artists on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket the tools and resources to achieve sustainability for their creative practice.
Click here to apply for the program. Applications are open to artists of all mediums, backgrounds, and experiences, and are due on Wednesday, November 12th with participants selected for the program in December and onboarding beginning in January 2026.
The Arts Foundation will hold two info sessions for anyone interested in applying to the program on Friday, September 26th, noon-1 pm, and Wednesday, October 15th, noon-1 pm. To register, click this link.
“Since we launched this program in 2023, we have witnessed local creatives take meaningful steps to strengthen the business side of their practice,” said Arts Foundation Executive Director Julie Wake. “It really lays the foundation for artists to build the type of resiliency, financial acumen, and network so they can thrive on Cape Cod and contribute in meaningful ways to our creative economy.”
Now entering its fourth year, the Capacity-Building Program combines education, professional development, peer-to-peer collaboration, and direct financial support. It is intended for any artist who is seeking to move forward in their careers as they participate in cohort meetups, workshops, and small group coaching in the development of a business plan. At the end of program completion, each artist will receive a $1,000 working capital grant to use towards achieving goals set forth in their plan.
The need for this type of program is especially acute on Cape Cod and the Islands where the high cost of living, lack of affordable and attainable housing, and seasonal economy create unique challenges for creatives. Through direct financial support, mentorship, and business training, the artistic cohort nurtures creative resilience, amplifies artistic voices, and helps ensure that the arts continue to thrive year-round.
Workshops will be led by practicing artists and arts professionals and will cover topics such as grant writing, financial planning, marketing, and business strategies for creatives.
Since its inception, a total of 42 artists has graduated from the program, giving them the support and guidance they have needed to grow and strengthen their careers.
The Arts Foundation’s Capacity-Building Program is part of its Creative Exchange which is focused on empowering, strengthening, inspiring, and connecting all who contribute to the arts sector in the region.
The Creative Exchange is made possible through the generous support of William Raveis Real Estate Company; The Cape Cod Foundation; the Barnstable County License Plate Grant Program; The Donald C. McGraw Foundation; The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod; John K. and Thirza F. Davenport Foundation; and Southshore Playhouse Associates/Cape Cod Melody Tent.
Businesses interested in supporting the Creative Exchange should email Amy Tuttle at atuttle@artsfoundation.org.