FAQ

What is Deaf Arts Leadership? 

Deaf Arts Leadership (DAL) is a new pilot program by Urban Jazz Dance Company and Deaf Spotlight. DAL aims to increase the pool of Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing leaders in the arts and culture sector across the United States. Many thanks to the Borealis Philanthropy Disability Inclusion Fund for supporting this project. 

How is this grant funded?

The DAL is funded through a two-year grant from the Borealis Philanthropy Disability Inclusion Fund. The grant is co-managed by Urban Jazz Dance Company and Deaf Spotlight.

We would love to have your support for this new program, as well! If you would like to make a contribution to support the Deaf Arts Leadership program, visit our donation page and comment to specify “DAL.” 

Who is eligible to apply for this program?

Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing artists and creative professionals who are 21 and over and reside in the United States are eligible to apply. Please read the guidelines for more details.

National Eligibility: Applicants from all other states and US territories.

When is the deadline for submitting application materials?

The deadline is Friday, February 13, 2026 by 11:59 PM PST. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Interested applicants can contact dal@deafspotlight.org with any questions.  

Do you have any recommendations for how to prepare my application?

We recommend that you use the preview document to prepare your answers ahead of time. Please make sure to have the materials below ready when you fill out the application..

You must complete and submit ALL materials along with payment of $25 by Friday, February 13th 11:59 PM PST to be considered: 

• Application 

• Resume

• 2 Letters of recommendation (using our template)

• $25 application fee  

We strongly encourage you not to wait until the last minute to start and submit your form. Late applications will not be considered.

Who should I ask for the letter of recommendation? 

We require two letters of recommendation. We encourage you to make a list of possible peers who know you and your work well. They will need to make a case why you are a great fit for this program.

When you find two people willing to fill out the form, you can send them this link or download the form yourself and email it to them. Do this early so they have time to work on the form!

What kind of project or event can I propose for this program? 

DAL projects must be arts-based and benefit the community. This can include events or community-based art installations. In the application, make sure to share how your project will help your community and elevate the arts. 

Dream big!

How will the DAL program select candidates?

Applications are reviewed by a diverse screening committee consisting of individuals who have connections to the arts and the Deaf and/or disability communities. The committee will use an objective criteria tool to make recommendations and final decisions for all applicants.

What does the selection process looks like?

We will screen all eligible applications and select qualified candidates for an intensive review. If your application is selected, you will be contacted for a virtual interview with the planning committee in early March 2026. After the interview process, the planning committee will notify the accepted candidates of next steps. 

When will we be notified? 

Notification will be sent via email in March 2026. 

How long is the Deaf Arts Leadership program? 

It will be 2 years, from March 2026 to November 2027. 

What will the cohort do during the 2-year program?

The cohort will learn and develop new skills in different areas: leadership, fundraising, marketing, budgeting, event planning, networking, and equity in the arts. You will work with an arts mentor and other creative professionals in sign language. 

More questions?

Please contact us at dal@deafspotlight.org