The application deadline is March 1, 2026. Selected projects must be carried out between March 1 and December 31, 2026.

Join us in bringing this shared history to life and showcasing the enduring cultural ties between the Netherlands and the United States.

Which projects are eligible for a grant application?

Dutch–American or Dutch cultural heritage and artistic projects taking place in the United States that:

• Contribute to strengthening the cultural profile of the Netherlands in the United States;
• Raise public awareness of the Dutch role in U.S. independence;
• Promote cooperation between the two countries.
• Projects must be publicly accessible.

Who can submit a grant application?

Only professional artists/makers, organizations, institutions, and legal entities based in the United States or the Netherlands may submit a grant application for an America 250 project. Applicants must be able to demonstrate relevant professional experience and prior cultural activities.

Personal development trajectories, school projects, and amateur activities are not eligible for funding.

Which disciplines and themes are eligible?

All disciplines are eligible. Special attention is given to cultural heritage projects and multidisciplinary projects in which heritage is combined with other disciplines, such as the performing arts, contemporary visual arts, architecture, design, fashion, or digital art.

In addition, Dutch Culture USA welcomes projects that feature innovative formats and methods, cross-border cultural exchange, and initiatives that actively engage new and/or younger audiences.

Where must the projects take place?

Projects must take place within the United States, unless they involve a virtual collaboration.

Special attention is given to projects taking place outside New York City and to those that foster regional cultural exchange.

Nature of the grants

A grant may cover costs related to Dutch and/or U.S. participation in the project, including:

• Travel and accommodation costs;
• (Art) transport costs;
• Production costs;
• PR and communication costs for the Dutch component of the project.

To enable proper assessment, Dutch Culture USA requires:

•  A complete budget for the entire project;
• A detailed budget plan clearly specifying which cost items are being requested for a contribution;
• An indication of other income sources, if applicable.

How is this open call different from the regular contribution program?

This open call is a thematic and one-time opportunity inviting professionals in both the Dutch and U.S. cultural sectors to submit proposals related specifically to America 250. Both Dutch and U.S. entities may apply, and there are no formal budget requirements.
By contrast, the regular contribution program:

• Is only available to U.S.-based entities;
• Requires co-funding from other income sources;
• Applies stricter eligibility rules regarding costs;
• Is not thematic, but allows for larger funding amounts.

Grant amounts

Dutch Culture USA awards grants for this open call typically range from €500 to €10,000.
As the available budget is limited, not all applications can be approved. Dutch Culture USA reserves the right to determine the final grant amount awarded; the requested amount may therefore not be granted in full.

Submission of applications

Applications for the America 250 open call must be submitted no later than March 1, 2026. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2026.

Your application is considered valid once you have:

• Complete the online application form;
• Submit a complete project budget and a detailed budget plan, clearly specifying the requested contribution and any other income sources, by email at nyc-pcz-applications@minbuza.nl

Processing of the application

Receipt of your application will be confirmed in writing by Dutch Culture USA.

Applications will first be reviewed by a staff member responsible for cultural affairs to assess completeness and accuracy. If necessary, additional information may be requested. Complete and timely applications will be submitted to an internal committee for evaluation.

A decision will be made within four weeks after the application deadline.

The project for which a grant is awarded must start before the end of the calendar year in which the grant is granted.

If your application is approved, Dutch Culture USA will inform you of the maximum grant amount awarded and the conditions under which the grant will be finalized. Grants are subject to the obligations outlined in the decision letter and the application form. Approval of an application does not confer any rights with regard to future applications.

Please use the application form.

For questions, please email us.