The Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts (MOCA) is accepting applications from non-profit organizations on Oahu seeking grants for the creation of new and original artistic works.

The Mayor's Production Grant Program is the only one of its kind in Hawaii dedicated to the creation of new and original works in the performing and literary arts. Awards of up to $5,000 will be available. The deadline for submittal of applications is Thursday, August 21.

Grants are available in the following fields: dance, theater, music, short film, and literature. Applicants must be tax-exempt, charitable 501(c)(3) organizations as defined by the Internal Revenue Service in the City and County of Honolulu. Projects must take place between Dec. , 2008, and Nov. 30, 2009, and must benefit the people of Oahu.

"The Production Grant Program is an excellent opportunity for community organizations to join the city in supporting and perpetuating the arts," Mayor Mufi Hannemann said in a news release issued by his office. "Past awardees have created wonderful works that showcase the artistic diversity of our Honolulu and enriched thousands with their art. The program stimulates and encourages artistic creativity, creates opportunities to raise awareness of an organization's work, and supports our cultural economy."

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

Proposals must be received by MOCA by 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 21. No incomplete or late entries will be accepted. Completed proposals should be submitted to MOCA, 530 S. King St., Room 404, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813. Hand-delivered proposals must be submitted during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, between 7:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

For more details about the grant program, visit www.honolulu.gov.moca or contact MOCA at 768-6622 or email at moca-grants@honolulu.gov.