Special to IFNArtists of all disciplines are invited to apply for the 2026-2027 Artist Support Grant from September 1–30. This regional grant is open to residents of Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Iredell, and McDowell counties. Artists, whether early or established, may use funds to create new work, improve business operations, and reach new audiences. The Artist Support Grant was created by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, in 2020 as a way to bolster artists hit hard by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Region 14, Arts Culture Catawba partners with the Hiddenite Arts & Heritage Center, Burke Arts Council, Rock School Arts Foundation, Caldwell Arts Council, Iredell Arts Council, and McDowell Arts Council Association.