The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council's mission is to develop the arts in Northwestern Minnesota's Region 1 by working with local and area arts organizations and individuals. It aims to foster artistic experiences of high quality by supporting the creation, production, and sponsorship of art activities across various disciplines.
The grant program offered by the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council supports art projects with a strong community focus, aiming to develop or enhance local or regional artists, resources, or audiences within its seven specified counties. It includes Arts Legacy Grants for organizational or individual projects and a specific category for artist residencies in schools, which cover various disciplines and provide additional funds for supplies. Funding originates from the Minnesota State Legislature through the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund of the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment. These grants are designed to foster artistic activity and education within the community, ensuring projects are completed within a 24-month timeframe and encouraging the use of a recommended teaching artist roster.