Igniting Possibilities Through the Arts

We equip our partners with the resources they need to support artists, strengthen arts organizations, and build a flourishing performing arts sector.

Explore Our Grantmaking Process

Our Impact

The arts and artists have a unique ability to connect us.

They build empathy, call us to action, and encourage us to imagine a future where all cultures and identities flourish together. The Paul Angell Foundation’s Performing Arts Program invests in those working to ensure a broad range of organizations and artists are thriving, valued, respected, and well resourced. Through strategic grants, relationship-building, and enduring support for the national ecosystem, we help build an equitable and sustainable arts sector that enriches our lives, uplifts creators, and tells the stories of who we were, are, and can become.

$20.2M

in grant funding in 2025

+51%

in funding from 2024

64%

of grants were for general operating support

Our Priorities

Planning for the Future of Performing Arts

Our Foundation has been working closely with our partners on a strategic planning process that will shape how we aim to spark change in the years ahead. We’re looking forward to sharing more about this work in the coming weeks and months. Please check back for updates.

How to Apply

We run three grantmaking cycles each year, aligned with our April, August, and November board meetings. Grantmaking is currently closed. Please check back for updates on upcoming opportunities.

New here? Learn how our grantmaking works →

Express Your Interest

If your work closely aligns with our priorities, you're welcome to email performingarts@paulangell.org with a brief, 200-word description of your work. We'll review your information and reach out if we're able to extend an invitation to apply.

Email Us

Apply for Funding

We are not currently accepting applications for funding. Please check back for updates on upcoming grant opportunities.

Manage Your Grant

Use the grantee portal to review your submission, sign your grant agreement, or submit reports.

Visit Our Portal

Partnerships
& Initiatives

We partner closely with other funders to amplify the impact of our work.

A funder collaborative supporting small and mid-sized arts organizations in Chicago and Cook County.

A champion for the national Latinx theatre sector.

Chicago Arts Education Collaborative

A learning community of Chicago-based funders working to address inequities in the availability and quality of arts learning and engagement programs for Chicago youth.