Across New York, artists and cultural organizations shape how communities tell their stories and connect with one another. Yet access to funding, space, and visibility remains uneven, particularly for artists from historically underrepresented communities. You can help by supporting these nonprofits working to build a more inclusive and sustainable arts sector—one where creative work is supported at every level, from individual artists to the systems that sustain them.
Promoting diversity in the arts
Asian American Arts Alliance is dedicated to advancing Asian American artists and cultural organizations through grants, fellowships, and professional development. It serves as a hub for research, community-building, and resources, including a widely used arts directory. The nonprofit increases visibility and supports a growing network of artists across New York City.
Laundromat Project advances artists and neighbors as change agents in their communities. Through its Create Change program, artists receive funding and training to develop public art projects rooted in local issues. By placing art in everyday spaces, the nonprofit expands access to creative expression and civic participation.
Museum Hue is dedicated to advancing artists who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color in museums. It provides professional development, networking, and resources for museum workers while advocating for equitable representation across the field. Its work supports a more inclusive and accountable cultural sector.
Strengthening the arts ecosystem
Culture and Arts Policy Institute conducts research and policy analysis to inform decision-making in the cultural sector. Its work focuses on equity, funding, and the role of the arts in civic life. By producing data-driven insights, it supports a more effective and responsive arts sector.
IndieSpace provides affordable rehearsal and performance space while advocating for the preservation of real estate and other resources for independent artists, theater companies, and venues. As creating art becomes less affordable, the organization works to ensure artists can continue to live and work in the city.
LONG ISLAND: Long Island Arts Alliance promotes the awareness of and participation in Long Island’s arts and cultural institutions. The Alliance offers leadership and support services to arts organizations, serves as an advocate for arts education in schools, and collaborates on strategies for economic development and community revitalization.
WESTCHESTER: ArtsWestchester is the county’s designated arts council, supporting artists and organizations through grants, public programs, and exhibitions. It also produces cultural programming and initiatives that bring the arts to a broad audience. It plays a central role in advancing the arts as a driver of economic development and community vitality in Westchester.
Increasing access to arts education
ArtsConnection partners with public schools to provide educational programs that integrate the arts into the classroom and ensure all students have access to high-quality arts instruction. Its teaching artists collaborate with classroom teachers to support student learning and creative development.
DreamYard Project works with young people in the Bronx to build pathways to college and careers through the arts. Its programs combine arts education with academic support and leadership development. The nonprofit focuses on long-term outcomes, supporting students from the early grades through higher education.
New York City Arts in Education Roundtable is a service organization and advocacy group dedicated to advancing arts education across New York City. It brings together educators, cultural organizations, and policymakers to promote policies that support equitable access to the arts for all students.
This list is not exhaustive. There are many incredible nonprofits helping to make our region a better place for all; we seek to highlight a few that may not already be on your radar. Please reach out to our philanthropic advising department at advising@thenytrust.org if you are a donor seeking customized recommendations based on your charitable goals.
