Our Impact

We support, inform, and celebrate creative organizations and communities across the Midwest and the nation. Using the power of Midwestern creativity, we build thriving, entrepreneurial, and welcoming communities.

Photo Credit: Tierra Suggs

Our National Impact

Since our founding in 1985, we’ve led programs, grants, and services that reach all across America. From current initiatives like the NEA Big Read and Shakespeare in American Communities to past programs that span geographic and cultural borders, artistic disciplines, and purpose, we’re committed to strengthening the nation’s creative core.

Our Regional Impact

As a Midwestern organization, we specifically focus on our region of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and the Native Nations that share this geography. Each fiscal year, we award grants to hundreds of organizations, tour artists across the Midwest, and share stories that celebrate Midwestern creativity.