Official State of Rhode Island website

Rhode Island Expansion Arts Program

The Rhode Island Expansion Arts Program (RIEAP) offers multi-year unrestricted funding and organizational assistance to community-based, arts and cultural organizations. This collaboration is supported by Rhode Island Foundation, RISCA, and Rhode Island Humanities.

The program supports small organizations whose missions center on the cultural practices and traditions. RIEAP provides the skills and tools these organizations need to grow as equal partners in the Rhode Island arts and cultural community. Priority is given to newly emerging groups. In seeking to build the capacity of these organizations, Rhode Island Expansion Arts Program recognizes the broader role they play in strengthening our communities. Funding fosters greater connections across arts and humanities. It also provides leadership and professional development for a broader network.

2023-2025 Rhode Island Expansion Arts Program Cohort  

Alumni Consultant Program brings back alumni as consultants. They can share their experiences while mentoring the new cohort. The program created in 2017 has become an incubator and a professional development opportunity for emerging consultants. 

Youth Development Grants are offered to Rhode Island Expansion Arts Cohort organizations to start or sustain a youth development project or program. Research on arts education and youth development emphasizes that positive outcomes are the result of high-quality programs that engage students in arts and culture. Successful youth development programs teach students dance, music, and various art forms, while promoting a healthy creative community. 

Collaboration Seed Grants promote partnerships between the Rhode Island Expansion Arts Cohort and alumni. The Cohort and Alumni organizations are eligible to apply for this grant that supports creative and innovative partnerships. 

For more information contact Elena.Patino@arts.ri.gov.