Application Open: Friday, Jan 16, 2026
Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026 by 11:59 PM PST
Deaf Arts Leadership will select a cohort of six members for the 2026-27 program. Read below to learn more about the application process.
Application Info
The DAL application is online. The application fee is $25.
In the online form, you will be asked to provide:
Resume
2 letters of recommendation (using our template)
We recommend reading the form now and using a separate document to write your answers to the narrative questions.
Timeline
Application opens: Friday, Jan 16, 2026
Application deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Panel review: Mid-February 2026
Cohort interview: Late February 2026 - early March 2026
Acceptance notification: March 2026
Who Can Apply
We seek to build a cohort that aspires to create transformative changes within their communities. The cohort will represent diversity in arts discipline, geography, demographics, and life experience. 51% or more of our cohort participants will identify as BIPOC.
Candidates must be:
Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, or Hard of Hearing
US-based citizens or residents who can provide a W-9
21 years of age or and over when the program begins
Able to pay a $25 application fee
We are looking for candidates who:
Have (or want to) pursue a career in the arts, entertainment, and/or media
Have at least 4 years of experience in the arts as an artist, arts administrator, producer, etc.
Have desire and drive to be changemakers in the arts world—expanding your influences and fresh ideas to make lasting impacts
Have contributed significant volunteer service to their communities
Demonstrate experience and success working as part of a team at work, in the community, or elsewhere
Have curiosity and willingness to explore new viewpoints
Review Process and Notification
Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness.
An appointed screening committee determines application rankings.
All required application materials (application, resume, and 2 letters of support) will be evaluated based on set review criteria.
Notification will be sent via email in March 2026.