Biddeford Youth Arts Scholarship Fund

Our Mission

The Biddeford Youth Arts Scholarship (BYAS) Fund aims to remove financial barriers for children and youth eager to explore the arts in Biddeford, Maine.

The BYAS Fund provides financial support for youth participation in local visual and performing arts classes, including art classes, dance, theater, and music lessons. Scholarships cover tuition and essential materials for extracurricular, community-based arts education in Biddeford.

The BYAS Fund is fiscally sponsored by Heart of Biddeford, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

Why It Matters

Biddeford is experiencing a cultural revival, yet many families still face economic challenges. Arts programs often come with tuition costs that put them out of reach. This scholarship program levels the playing field, giving every child the chance to benefit from the confidence, skill-building, community connections, and personal fulfillment that arts participation fosters.

Who It Supports

Scholarships are available to children and youth age 18 and under living in Biddeford, Maine. Funds cover tuition for community-based classes taught by local artists and organizations. Whether your child dreams of painting, dancing, acting, or playing music—this program helps make it possible.

How You Can Help

Your donation directly supports scholarships for local youth. It’s an investment in creativity, education, and community. Every contribution helps nurture the next generation of artists, performers, and creative thinkers in Biddeford.

👉 Donate Today to support a creative child.

Applying for a Scholarship

How It Works

Scholarship recipients must be age 18 or under, reside at least part time in Biddeford, Maine, and seek to participate in programming with one of the BYAS Fund Partner Organizations.
- Participating Partner Organizations:
  - Common Roots Studio
  - Mill Studio Arts
  - The Academy of Dance
  - Dance With ME
  - Dirigo Conservatory of Movement
  - KindKids Music
  - MidTown Music
Scholarship availability may vary based on available funds, class openings, and timing.
Separate applications should be completed for multiple children from the same household.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed in the order they are received.
Students/families will be notified within five (5) business days of application submission by email, phone, and/or mail.
If approved, scholarship funds will be paid directly to the arts program the student will attend. By submitting an application, families grant permission for the BYAS Fund to coordinate directly with the arts program regarding enrollment and payment.

How to Apply

- Online: Click the "Apply" button below and fill out the form.
- In Person: Get a paper application at Heart of Biddeford (205 Main Street, Suite 103, Biddeford, Maine) or from any partner organization.

If you have questions or want to talk about the application before or after you apply, email: [email protected].

Apply