Biddeford Youth Arts Scholarship Fund

Why It Matters

Creativity Shouldn't Be a Luxury

In Biddeford, talent is everywhere, but access isn’t. Too many children and teens are eager to paint, dance, sing, act, or create, yet are held back by one simple barrier: cost.

The Biddeford Youth Arts Scholarship (BYAS) Fund exists to change that.

Founded in 2025, 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

The BYAS Fund is a community-driven effort to ensure that financial limitations never determine who gets to participate in the arts. Through partnerships with trusted local arts educators, the Fund connects youth directly to high-quality visual and performing arts instruction — covering fees so families can say yes to opportunity.

Every contribution matters. Every child deserves access. You can make a difference.

👉 Give today and help remove the barrier between a young person and their creative potential by becoming a:

• Creative Friend: $125
• Creative Supporter: $250
• Creative Partner: $500
• Creative Sponsor: $750
• Creative Champion: $1000

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].