Are you a committed arts leader focused on advancing equity? Consider applying for the National Leaders of Color Fellowship! This fellowship is a strategic leadership development program for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) leaders who are committed to the advancement of cultural equity in the arts.

WHAT: The National Leaders of Color Fellowship is an all-expenses-paid, 8-month fellowship for early, emerging or mid-career leaders of color in the field of arts and culture.

HOW: Using a cohort structure, the program emphasizes experiential learning, community building, and service to the field.

WHEN: Applications are due August 31, and the fellowship will take place from October 2022–May 2023.

WHERE: You must be a current resident of the United States, including U.S. Jurisdictions. We encourage Midwestern arts leaders to apply! 

WHO: Candidates must self-identify as Black, Indigenous and/or a person of color. LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, low-income, and individuals residing in rural areas are encouraged to apply.
learn more

The National Leaders of Color Fellowship is a national program managed by the Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF) and supported by the six US Regional Arts Organizations, including Arts Midwest. Since 2010, and for the past two years in partnership with South Arts, the Western States Arts Federation’s (WESTAF) Emerging Leaders of Color (ELC) program has promoted diverse, representative leadership and equity in the arts field by supporting the leadership of more than 100 arts leaders of color.