Artist Grants (Production, Workshop, Family)

The Jim Henson Foundation's Artist Grants fund the creation of new, full-length works of live contemporary puppet theater in the United States. Three categories are offered: Workshop Grants ($4,000) for mid-process development, Production Grants ($10,000) for works premiering in the coming year, and Family Grants ($5,000) for new work aimed at children and families. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or individuals with a fiscal sponsor, and the process runs through Submittable in two stages: a two-page letter of intent (due March 3, 2026 for the 2027 cycle) followed by an invited full application due September 9, 2026.

Live puppet theater by US-based primary artists; must apply through 501(c)(3) or fiscal sponsor; artists funded the previous year not eligible (except Workshop-to-Production).

Over 1,200 grants awarded since 1982. Also funds Presenter Grants and PATCH.