Description

The purpose of the 2026–27 Arts Curricular Innovation Grants (ACIG) is to assist schools and districts in developing and implementing arts initiatives that support quality arts education programs that significantly improve student achievement in the arts.

Arts Enhancement Program (AEP) grants are designed to support the development and expansion of school arts programs, including dance, music, theatre, and/or visual art. Proposals may support an individual arts area or multiple arts areas. All four arts areas are not required for grant eligibility.

Program Office

Office of Assessment and Standards

Eligible Applicants

All South Carolina Title I schools, as identified by the SCDE are eligible to apply for an AEP grant. A school may submit only one grant proposal for either an AEP grant or a Distinguished Arts Program (DAP) grant. Multiple schools within a district may apply and receive AEP grants if their district does not submit a DAP grant proposal. 

Total Funding Available

Approximately $350,000

Funding Detail

The SCDE anticipates awarding up to 35 grants of up to $10,000. See the request for proposals (RFP) for detailed information.

Project Term

July 1, 2026, through May 28, 2027

Application Due Date               

April 24, 2026

Technical Assistance Session

The Office of Assessment and Standards provided a pre-application technical assistance session on March 10, 2026. Email oasgrants@ed.sc.gov for access to the recording.   ​​​​​​​

Documents

Request for Proposals (DOCX 1.13mb 2/20/2026)
Application Link
Arts Enhancement Program Budget Narrative Template (XSLX, 16.5kb – 2/20/2026)

Program Web Page

Visual and Performing Arts
Office of Assessment and Standards- Arts Curricular Innovation Grants