Cook County Arts

Cook County Arts is a pilot initiative of the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development made possible by $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding. Cook County Arts will provide recovery support for artists and nonprofit arts and culture organizations while investing resources to strengthen the suburban arts sector long-term.

The initiative will provide grants to suburban nonprofit organizations, host a creative placemaking grant program, offer a cohort-based learning and advising program, and lead efforts to further support the integration of the arts into County programs and policies.

The arts and culture sector was among the hardest-hit industries during the COVID-19 pandemic, and organizations face significant ongoing challenges due to changing operational needs and declines in both earned and contributed revenue. Providing needed relief to arts and culture organizations will help ensure these vital community assets thrive in the post-pandemic economy.

For more information, visit cookcountyarts.org.

Creative Placemaking Grants

In February 2025, Cook County Arts launched a creative placemaking grant program for communities in suburban Cook County. Nonprofit organizations located in and serving suburban communities can apply for grants of up to $250,000 supporting projects focused on public arts, community gardens and more.

Applications are due April 7, 2025.

Learn more today at cookcountyarts.org/creative-placemaking/.

Nonprofit Relief Grants 

In 2024, Cook County Arts provided Nonprofit Relief Grants to nonprofit organizations located in suburban Cook County. 

A list of the 100 nonprofit organizations that received grants is available here!

Questions?

For more information, contact Cook County Bureau of Economic Development public relations specialist Kyle Garmes at kyle.garmes@cookcountyil.gov.