Apply Today to be a Special Request Panelist

The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) is accepting applications for panelists for the Special Request program, which funds Maryland arts organizations undertaking innovative projects, pilot projects, or capacity-building efforts that fall outside their regular budgets.

MSAC relies on a diverse array of experts from across the state to do the important work of evaluating applications. MSAC selects Special Request panelists with a focus on diversity of experiences, diversity of location, and expertise in the types of work described above. Panelists must be Maryland residents.

What to Expect as a Panelist

Attend a virtual orientation outlining panelist responsibilities

Review applications using MSAC’s online grants management system, SmartSimple

Submit final evaluations of applications using SmartSimple

Receive compensation depending on the number of assigned applications

Remain available for additional cycles of evaluation through spring, if needed

What We're Looking For

Arts administrators, cultural workers, artists, and others interested in the grantmaking process

Those familiar with Maryland arts organizations, and the types of activities described above

Individuals representing the geographic diversity of Maryland, especially those from the Western, Southern, and Eastern Shore regions

How to Apply

Submit an application via SmartSimple:

Click the Apply Now button below to log in or create a free account in SmartSimple (you will need to be registered as an Independent Artist to apply)

Under Opportunities, select "Public Call"

Under the “Narrative” tab, select "Panelist Call" from the dropdown options

Select “Special Request Grant” from the “Grant Program” dropdown menu

Click "Save Draft" to populate the application

Complete the application, and click “Submit”

Apply Now!

Applications due by Monday, November 20, 2023