Overview

• The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) announced it will prioritize grants for projects celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
• The Challenge America grant program, which supported arts in underserved communities, has been canceled for fiscal year 2026.
• Organizations that previously applied for NEA grants must resubmit applications to align with the updated guidelines emphasizing patriotic themes.
• The changes follow directives from President Trump, whose administration is reviewing federal spending and eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
• The NEA's shift is part of broader federal efforts to reframe cultural and historical programs, including similar actions by the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art.