The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) is dedicated to advancing the arts across the state. Its mission focuses on championing creative expression, diverse programming, equitable access, lifelong learning, and enhancing the quality of life through the arts for all Marylanders. MSAC aims to increase participation, provide intentional support, build capacity, leverage connections, and bolster the arts in Maryland, showcasing the work of artists and arts organizations to enrich community vitality.
The Purpose of the Professional Development Opportunity Grant Program is to foster growth, learning, and discovery among artists and arts organizations throughout Maryland. The program supports professional development activities that are relevant to the artists' or organizations' objectives. This can include individual or collective opportunities for independent artists and development opportunities that align with an organization's needs to better present or produce arts programs, services, or projects accessible to the public. The grants are awarded on a rolling basis until the allocated funding is exhausted, with a stipulation that applicants may only receive funding for one application per fiscal year. Activities eligible for funding must demonstrate alignment with the Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery plan.