Panelists play a critical role in the grant application process as field representatives.

The panel experience provides great insight into the grant-making process, offering professional development for arts practitioners working across creative sectors.

2026 Grant Review Panel Process

Grant panelists will be independently reviewing and ranking applications within their assigned program categories. Intermittent virtual check-ins with Arts Program Specialists will be scheduled to address and resolve any panel process, application, or adjudication questions. Orientation and check-in meetings are a training and support space for panelists only.

After award recommendations have been approved or denied by Council, grant applicants can view their application’s panel notes by going onto the online grants portal (calartscouncil.smartsimple.com) and opening their grant application. A tab labeled “Panel Details” will appear on the far right. After clicking on this, applicants will be able to view their reviewed application’s panel notes.