The mini-grant program awards financial support up to $300, as well as administrative and production support for performance projects led by Native American artists. Additional funding is available for projects that dovetail with existing BHCT programming.
Who can apply: Artists from all tribal nations and backgrounds. The goal of the mini-grant program is to provide a performance platform and creative outlet for community artists without the costs of self-production. All of BHCT’s programming is volunteer based, and while honorariums may be a part of the grant, we cannot offer the same compensation as a professional opportunity.
What type of projects are considered: Applications can be submitted for any project lead by a Native artist that aligns with BHCT’s mission (to collaborate with our community to entertain, educate, and foster growth in the arts.) These can range from one off performance events to workshops to projects that enhance existing BHCT programming. Additional funding is available for projects that can be combined with BHCT's existing programming; all applications will be considered for this additional opportunity with no additional application required by the artist.
What can grant funds be used for: Applicants can specify how they intend to use funds, which can include honorariums for participating artists and travel expenses. BHCT can also provide administrative, marketing, and technical support, performance and/or rehearsal space as well as the financial grant.
How to apply: Applications for projects occurring September-December, 2026 should be submitted no later than July 1st, with applicants notified of their grant standing by August 1st. Applicants interested in teaching a summer camp or participating in an August talent show should apply by May 20th. Rolling deadlines will continue to be announced throughout the year. You can apply online (https://forms.gle/GQqUKCmoRfHQsQuq9), download the pdf application, or email Artistic Director Merlyn Sell ([email protected]) for further information.
How grants are awarded: Stand-alone grants are awarded by BHCT’s Native American Collaboration Committee based on their cultural relevance to our Native community and their relevance to BHCT’s mission. Projects that may be incorporated into existing BHCT programming may be subject to approval by other BHCT staff or committees.
Who can apply: Artists from all tribal nations and backgrounds. The goal of the mini-grant program is to provide a performance platform and creative outlet for community artists without the costs of self-production. All of BHCT’s programming is volunteer based, and while honorariums may be a part of the grant, we cannot offer the same compensation as a professional opportunity.
What type of projects are considered: Applications can be submitted for any project lead by a Native artist that aligns with BHCT’s mission (to collaborate with our community to entertain, educate, and foster growth in the arts.) These can range from one off performance events to workshops to projects that enhance existing BHCT programming. Additional funding is available for projects that can be combined with BHCT's existing programming; all applications will be considered for this additional opportunity with no additional application required by the artist.
What can grant funds be used for: Applicants can specify how they intend to use funds, which can include honorariums for participating artists and travel expenses. BHCT can also provide administrative, marketing, and technical support, performance and/or rehearsal space as well as the financial grant.
How to apply: Applications for projects occurring September-December, 2026 should be submitted no later than July 1st, with applicants notified of their grant standing by August 1st. Applicants interested in teaching a summer camp or participating in an August talent show should apply by May 20th. Rolling deadlines will continue to be announced throughout the year. You can apply online (https://forms.gle/GQqUKCmoRfHQsQuq9), download the pdf application, or email Artistic Director Merlyn Sell ([email protected]) for further information.
How grants are awarded: Stand-alone grants are awarded by BHCT’s Native American Collaboration Committee based on their cultural relevance to our Native community and their relevance to BHCT’s mission. Projects that may be incorporated into existing BHCT programming may be subject to approval by other BHCT staff or committees.
In addition to original project ideas, the committee would love to see submissions for the following opportunities for this summer:
• Performers for August 8th, 2026 NAACC Talent Show. Dancers, story-tellers, drummers, and others are welcome to submit! BHCT will provide rehearsal space, technical support, performance space, administrative and marketing support for this event. Applicants should apply by May 20th.
• Children’s summer theatre camp(s) focused on Lakota culture. Applicants can use the regular grant application for this opportunity and should apply by May 20th. Summer camp teachers will receive the usual teaching artist stipend from BHCT in addition to any grant funds.
• Performers for August 8th, 2026 NAACC Talent Show. Dancers, story-tellers, drummers, and others are welcome to submit! BHCT will provide rehearsal space, technical support, performance space, administrative and marketing support for this event. Applicants should apply by May 20th.
• Children’s summer theatre camp(s) focused on Lakota culture. Applicants can use the regular grant application for this opportunity and should apply by May 20th. Summer camp teachers will receive the usual teaching artist stipend from BHCT in addition to any grant funds.