I think you usually need to go 50-50, so you have to match whatever they're going to give you. Of course, you do have to get the grant first! Don't know about Arts, but the Sports Council gave our sailing club a grant towards some new training boats - my mum was one of the folks involved in that, so I could ask her what they did if you like.

Also, you're more likely to get money if it's of general use to the community. If it's just to support you and your mates, you're unlikely to get anything. If it's to help you go round schools teaching music, then you're in with a chance.

Grab.