The purpose of the Gulfport Merchants Chamber’s “Rise and Shine” Artist Grants is to support the creative community within Gulfport and the surrounding area and to promote Gulfport as an art destination. The grants include funding, marketing and advertising support, and exhibition space. To be eligible to apply for one of the two grants offered: 

The applicant must be 18 years of age or older. 

Be a current resident of Pinellas County  

Preference will be given to current residents of the City of Gulfport.

Two grants will be issued with a value of $1,100 each. Requirements of the grant must be completed within a one-year period. The grant includes:  

• Upon award, $500 to be use for displays, materials and supplies related to your aspirations as an artist.  

• $250 in five (5) booth reservations at Gulfport’s First Friday Art Walk OR Third Saturday IndieFaire. 

• Jury Exempt and 1/2 price booth for the Gulfport Fine Arts Festival (GFAF) (Value of $160.00). Full signage at the GFAF show indicating Emerging Artist and additional free social media marketing. 

• Free 1-year membership as ‘Art Works Here’ GMC Artist member. Includes free social media promotion, workshops, etc. (value $50) 

• $200 after completing all five (5) art walk events and submitting feedback.

All grant monies are expected to go into creating artistic work and creating a professional display that can be used for future festivals and shows. Invoices for the initial $500 and final $200 are required. The final $200 is dependent on post grant feedback. This can be given in a written statement or in person. 

Members of the Gulfport Merchants Chamber Board of Directors will review all submitted requests. Artists will be notified of decisions via e-mail. All funding decisions are final.  If you have any questions, please contact us via email at Events@visitgulfportflorida.com