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MidTown Public Art Matching Grant

If you are interested in sitting on the MidTown Art Committee (helping decide what art comes into MidTown) please fill out this application.
If you an artist interested in getting hired for this project, please fill out this application.

Program Overview

MidTown Reno is launching the MidTown Public Art Matching Grant, a new pilot program designed to support murals and public art installations throughout the neighborhood.
This program will provide matching funds to MidTown member businesses to help commission murals, artistic signage, sculptures, and other creative exterior art installations that enhance MidTown’s identity as Reno’s arts district.
Public art plays an important role in creating vibrant, walkable neighborhoods. Murals and creative installations help attract visitors, celebrate local culture, support artists, and strengthen the character of our district.
This pilot program is designed to encourage collaboration between businesses and artists while continuing to grow MidTown as one of Reno’s most creative and engaging neighborhoods.

Grant Amount

Businesses may apply for matching funds of up to $5,000.
The grant requires a minimum 1:1 match, meaning the business must contribute at least the same amount toward the project.
Examples:
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Because this is a pilot program with limited funding, the number and size of awards will depend on the quality of applications and available funds.

Grant payment & Reporting Requirements

Because the MidTown Public Art Matching Grant is funded through the Nevada Main Street Program, all grant funds must follow Nevada Main Street reporting and reimbursement requirements.
MidTown Reno serves as the official grant recipient and will distribute funds to selected businesses after all required documentation has been submitted and approved.

Reimbursement Structure

This program operates as a reimbursement grant.
Businesses must first complete their approved project and submit all required documentation to MidTown Reno. Once the project documentation has been reviewed and approved, MidTown will issue reimbursement for the approved grant amount.
Grant funds will only be reimbursed for eligible project expenses that were approved during the application process.

Required Documention for Reimbursement

To receive reimbursement, selected businesses must submit the following documentation:
- Final invoices from the artist or contractor
- Proof of payment (receipts, cancelled checks, or payment confirmation)
- Photos of the completed artwork
- Photos of the artwork in its installed location
- Documentation of the community engagement activity (such as a meet-the-artist event or installation activation)
MidTown may request additional documentation if required for Nevada Main Street reporting.

Reporting Requirements

Because this project is funded through the Nevada Main Street program, MidTown Reno must submit reports to the State demonstrating the impact of the project.
Selected businesses will be required to provide basic reporting information including:
- Final project description
- Artist information
- Total project cost
- Amount of matching funds contributed
- Photos of the completed installation
- Any community engagement activities related to the project
This information will be used by MidTown Reno to complete required reporting to the Nevada Main Street Program.

Who Can Apply

To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be an active MidTown Partner / Member
- Be located within the MidTown district boundaries (as shown on Google)
- Have written permission from the property owner (if leasing)
- Install artwork visible from the public right of way
- Work with a professional artist or creative professional
- Provide matching funds for the project
Businesses that are not currently MidTown members may join the MidTown Membership to become eligible. Join here

Eligible Projects

Projects must be installed on the exterior of the business and visible to the public.
Eligible projects may include:
- Murals
- Sculptural public art
- Artistic signage
- Creative installations attached to buildings
- Painted dumpsters (subject to approval)
- Other creative exterior art elements
Projects should contribute to the visual character and creative identity of MidTown.

Project Requirements

Selected applicants will be asked to:
- Work with MidTown staff and the Art Committee
- Complete the project within the program timeline (all funds must be used by the end of November 2026)
- Allow MidTown to promote the artwork and artist
- Host or participate in a community engagement element, such as:
Examples may include:
- Meet the artist event
- Small unveiling gathering
- Participation during a MidTown event
Whenever possible, MidTown encourages installations to happen during neighborhood events such as Dancing in the Streets, Reno Pride, or other MidTown activations, allowing the public to witness the art being created.

How Projects Art Selected

Applications will be reviewed by the MidTown Art Committee.
Projects will be evaluated based on:
- Artistic merit and creativity
- Visibility and public impact
- Feasibility and project readiness
- Community engagement potential
Final selections will be approved by the MidTown Board.

Timeline

Early April
- Applications open
April 30th
- Application deadline
May
- Project selection
Summer – Fall
- Art installations take place
All projects must be completed by November 2026.