The Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations on O'ahu seeking grants for the creation of new and original artistic works.

Awards are available up to $5,000. The deadline for submitting applications is 4:30 p.m. Aug. 23.

Grants are available in: dance, theater, music and literature. Applicants must be tax-exempt, charitable organizations as defined by the Internal Revenue Code on O'ahu. The projects must benefit the people of O'ahu. Projects must take place between Dec. 1 and Nov. 30, 2008.

"The Production Grant Program is the only one in the state dedicated to the creation of new artwork," said Mayor Mufi Hannemann. "Past awardees have created wonderful works that showcase the artistic richness of our Honolulu. I encourage community organizations to use this opportunity to join the city in supporting and perpetuating the arts."

Only one grant will be awarded to an organization in any fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Funds are not granted for scholarships, to benefit individuals or for religious programs. Grants generally are not approved for conferences, festivals or operating support.

Proposals must be hand-delivered or postmarked by Aug. 23 to the Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts, 530 S. King St., Room 404, Honolulu, HI 96813. Hand-delivered proposals must be submitted between 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

For information about application proposals, reach the culture and arts office at 523-4674 or moca-grant@honolulu.gov.