Open Call Beautiful Seed Grant

The Beautiful Seed Grant

Submissions Open: Deadline: February 15, 2026 Fee: $40

The Search for the 2026 Emerging Muslim Creative Recipient of the Beautiful Seed Grant

The Vision
Strange Inc. is looking for one project to champion in 2026. We are looking for work that reflects our core values: Restorative Beauty, Intellectual Honesty, and Faith-Driven Purpose.

The Prize

The Stage: A showcase slot at the 2026 Muslim Creatives Fest in NY.

$1,000 Beautiful Seed Grant.

Visibility: Features on the Muslim Creative Podcast and Strange Inc. social platforms and newsletter with 2000 + reach.

The Process

1. Submit: Apply with your project plan by filling the submission form and a $40 entry fee.
2. Review: The Strange Inc. Board will select the Top 5 Finalists.
3. Interview: The Top 5 will be interviewed by our leadership.
4. Vote: The community will vote for the winner among the finalists.
5. The Commitment The winner will submit a monthly progress journal (video or writing) to be shared with the Strange Inc. community as they bring their project to life.

Step 1 (Part One): Payment

Invest in the Harvest: To complete your application, please process the $40 entry fee. This fee directly funds the 2026 Seed Grant and our creative community. Click button to pay or scan the QR code below.

Entry Fee Link

Step 1 (part two): Submission form

FAQs

What qualifies as a “Project”?

A project is anything with a beginning and a definitive end. We are looking for a “Harvest”—a finished product. Examples include:
The Arts: A book, a poetry collection, a gallery series, a short film, or a nasheed album.
Product & Design: A unique clothing line, a digital app, or a furniture design.
Culinary Arts: A specific food product or a community cookbook.
Community: A mural, a specific workshop series, or a documentary.

I’m a Non-Profit/ Organization/ business. Can I apply?

Yes! We welcome applications from non-profits, creative collectives, and small businesses. However, the application must name a Lead Creative who will be responsible for the monthly “Creative Journals” and will represent the project at the Muslim Creatives Fest.

Does the project have to be “Religious”?

No. While we look for work that reflects our values (Restorative Beauty and Intellectual Honesty), your project does not have to be “about” religion. We want to see how your faith or values inspire excellence in whatever you create—whether it’s a tech product or a novel.

What if my project costs more than $1,000?

That’s fine! Most projects do. In your Budget Breakdown, just show us how this specific $1,000 “Seed” will help you cross a specific finish line or buy a vital piece of equipment you are currently missing.

What is the $40 fee for?

This fee is a direct investment in the Muslim creative ecosystem. It covers the $1,000 grant prize and the administrative work required to review every submission. By paying the fee, you are supporting the “Harvest” for the entire community.

Can I apply if I live outside of New York?

Yes. While we are celebrating New York Muslim Heritage Month, the Emerging Muslim Creative search is global. If you can’t join us in person for the Fest, you will be featured in our Virtual Fest.

Can multiple people apply together for one project?

Yes. We love collaborations! If you are a duo or a team, please choose one person to be the “Point of Contact.” The grant amount remains $1,000 for the project total, and your team will be featured collectively.

Is there an age limit?

No. We believe “Emerging” is a mindset, not an age. Whether you are a 16-year-old digital artist or a 60-year-old first-time novelist, if you have a “Seed” that needs to grow, we want to see it.

What if I have two great ideas? Can I apply twice?

Yes. You may submit more than one project, but please note that each submission requires a separate application form and a separate $40 entry fee.

Does the project have to be in English?

No. We celebrate the global nature of our community. However, please provide an English translation or summary for your project vision and roadmap so our Board of Directors can properly assess it.

When will the winner be announced?

Finalists will be contacted by the end of February, and the 2026 Emerging Muslim Creative will be announced in early April.

What happens if I don’t win?

Even if you aren’t selected for the grant, you are now part of the Strange Inc. Creative Community. You will receive updates on our Art & Therapy workshops, future “Halal Reads” opportunities, and early-bird access to the Muslim Creatives Fest.

Can I apply as a performer?

Absolutely. We welcome Theatre, Nasheed, Spoken Word, and Quran Reciters. However, remember that the “Beautiful Seed” grant is for a Project. Instead of just applying “to be a performer,” tell us about the specific project you are building—like recording an album, producing a play, or filming a poetry special.

How much time will we be given to complete the entire project for the winning applicant?

At Strange Inc., we believe excellence shouldn’t be rushed. There is no rigid deadline; we prioritize the soul of the work over the speed of the clock. That said, we do ask for a collaborative journey—we’d love for you to share your progress and evolution from start to finish so we can experience the process alongside you.