AthFest Educates, an Athens organization geared towards funding arts education, began taking applications for educational grants for the 2025-2026 school year on July 7. Educators, nonprofit organizations, public schools and government agencies can apply for arts and music education grants until Aug. 25.

AthFest Educates will announce the recipients in September. The grants, which can total up to $5,000, come in three types: music and arts equipment, music and arts experiences for students or professional development in music and the arts.

In the past, these have included instruments, sound equipment, educational performances at local venues and art studio programs.

Educators who want to use the arts to educate students in other core subjects will also be eligible.

The funding for these grants comes from the revenue generated by the AthFest Music and Arts Festival that takes place every June and the AthHalf Half Marathon and 5k every fall. Local donors also contribute to the organization.

“We are honored to be able to funnel the community’s support for arts education into local educator’s efforts to nurture the next generation of Athens musicians and artists,” Executive Director Mary Joyce said in a press release.

Since its founding, AthFest Educates has given more than $685,000 in grants. In 2025, more than 5,000 students were served by the organization’s grants.

Those interested can submit applications here.