Arts and Culture

The Connecticut Community Foundation's Arts and Culture grant program aims to support and enhance the role of arts in education, economic development, and overall quality of life. The program acknowledges the connection between arts-based learning and improved academic performance while also emphasizing the economic and cultural impact of the arts on the local community. Recognizing disparities in access to the arts, this grant prioritizes initiatives that address these gaps and increase accessibility to culturally responsive art experiences, particularly those led by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) artists. The primary objectives of the grant program include increasing access to high-quality creative arts programs, particularly in communities that have historically been underrepresented. It also seeks to nourish community arts efforts while encouraging traditional arts institutions to rethink their engagement strategies to be more inclusive of diverse communities. The program aims to support participatory arts initiatives across various media, including visual arts, theater, music, dance, and writing, to foster inclusivity and engagement among individuals of diverse backgrounds, ages, genders, and cultures. Funding is available for programs that create opportunities for artists to develop and showcase their work while fostering collaboration and community-building. This can include initiatives that integrate the arts with broader social and economic development efforts, as well as outreach activities targeting underrepresented audiences. The program also aims to strengthen the local arts sector by supporting professional development for artists and promoting an environment where both established and emerging artists can thrive. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations that focus on arts and culture and serve the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region in Connecticut. Priority will be given to projects that support artists from historically marginalized backgrounds and efforts that build sustainable, community-driven arts initiatives. The Foundation encourages applications from organizations working to address existing disparities in arts access and representation. Grant proposals for the Arts and Culture program are accepted once per year. Applicants are encouraged to review past grantee projects to gain insight into the types of initiatives that align with the Foundation's funding priorities. The application process requires submission of a detailed proposal outlining the project scope, intended impact, budget, and a plan for execution. Proposals will be evaluated based on their ability to increase arts accessibility, support community engagement, and contribute to the overall cultural and economic development of the region. For further information, applicants may contact Josh Carey, Director of Grants Management, at jcarey@conncf.org or by phone at 203-753-1315. The Connecticut Community Foundation remains committed to fostering a vibrant and equitable arts ecosystem that enhances the well-being of communities throughout its 21-town service area.