Every community has people who carry its stories, teachings, and creative practices forward to ensure cultural knowledge remains alive and accessible for future generations. The 2026 Midwest Culture Bearers Award is now open and looking to support those people.
This year, 18 awardees will each receive $5,000 to support their work. They’ll also have the opportunity to join capacity building and professional development sessions and have an Arts Midwest story written about their work.
If this sounds like a good fit for you or someone you know, submit an application by August 18, 2026.
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