News Summary
New York State will allocate $80 million from the Council on the Arts Capital Projects Fund to support nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. This funding aims to enhance community development and improve accessibility while strengthening New York’s cultural landscape. Building on previous awards, the initiative will target large-scale projects to ensure economic growth and job preservation within the arts sector. Grant applications are now open, with several categories tailored to different organizational needs and a commitment to supporting smaller entities.
New York State is allocating $80 million through the Council on the Arts Capital Projects Fund to bolster nonprofit arts and cultural organizations throughout the state. This funding initiative aims to advance accessibility and community development while enhancing the state’s vibrant cultural landscape.
The newly announced program builds upon the $86 million in capital awards declared earlier in 2025, demonstrating the state’s ongoing commitment to the arts. Governor Kathy Hochul has highlighted the cultural sector’s vital role in attracting global visitors and facilitating economic opportunities in New York.
Funding Purpose and Goals
The primary focus of the funding is to support large-scale capital projects that foster community development and enhance placemaking initiatives. The funds are dedicated to capital improvements that will elevate cultural programming, promote greater accessibility, and improve environmental sustainability across organizations.
The grants are expected to contribute significantly to preserving and creating jobs while propelling growth within New York’s arts and tourism industries. By providing these financial resources, the state aims to ensure that the cultural sector remains robust and competitive.
Grant Categories
The Capital Projects Fund has been designed with three distinct grant categories to accommodate various organizational needs:
- Small and Midsized Capital Improvement Grants: These grants offer up to $2 million for projects that focus on accessibility, sustainability, artistry, and community impact. Additionally, there are no-match grants available for organizations with operating budgets under $2 million, ranging from $10,000 to $99,000.
- Large Capital Improvement Grants: Targeting comprehensive initiatives, these grants range from $2 million to $10 million for major projects with total costs exceeding $4 million. They cover up to 50% of the project costs, necessitating alignment with the state goals for economic development and social equity.
- Capital Design Grants: These grants, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, assist in the development of design documents. They are accessible to arts organizations with operating budgets of $10 million or less and can fund up to 50% of the costs associated with the design phase.
Application Process and Timeline
The application portal for these grants is officially open, and all applications must be submitted by January 13, 2026. To support the application process, the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) will host informational webinars and virtual office hours, providing guidance to potential applicants.
Organizations intending to apply for large capital grants are required to consult with NYSCA staff to verify alignment with the specific priorities established for the grant program. Following the application period, grant awards are anticipated to be announced in spring 2026.
Past Achievements and Commitment to the Arts
Since the inception of the Capital Projects Fund in 2018, New York State has awarded 607 capital grants totaling $302.5 million across various organizations. Importantly, in the fiscal year 2025, 60% of the grants went to organizations managing budgets below $5 million, highlighting a commitment to supporting smaller entities within the arts sector.
The fiscal year 2026 enacted budget also includes over $81 million designated for NYSCA general operating support for nonprofit organizations and individual artists, further solidifying New York’s dedication to nurturing and promoting the arts in the state.
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