New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced more than 2,400 grants totaling US$63 million to arts and cultural organizations across the state, marking one of the largest investments in the sector through the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). When combined with previously awarded multi-year funding, NYSCA’s total support for Fiscal Year 2026 rises to US$80.9 million.
Governor Hochul said the investment reflects New York’s long-standing commitment to arts and culture as a driver of economic activity and community development.
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“New York’s arts and culture sector is a cornerstone of the state’s identity, and we’re making bold investments to ensure it remains strong,” she said. “These grants will lift up artists and organizations in every region, fueling local economies and expanding access to the arts. Congratulations to all the grantees—your talent and dedication help power New York’s future.”
According to NYSCA, more than half of organizational grants went to nonprofits with annual budgets under US$500,000, while 71 percent of awards supported institutions operating with budgets below US$1 million.
The newly announced grants span four categories for FY 2026:
• Support for Organizations
• Support for Artists
• Targeted Opportunities
• Regrants and Services
In addition to the grants, NYSCA is accepting applications for its US$80 million Arts Capital Projects Fund until January 13, 2026 at 5 p.m. This fund supports capital improvements at cultural nonprofit facilities, prioritizing accessibility, diverse programming, and environmental sustainability.
NYSCA Executive Director Erika Mallin praised the impact of the awards, calling the arts council a “stalwart and innovative funder” during challenging times.
“These grants will serve artists and organizations in every region and county, fueling our economy and serving our communities,” Mallin said. “We know this support isn’t just an investment in the arts; it’s an investment in New York’s future.”
Patrick Willingham, Chair of the New York State Council on the Arts, expressed gratitude for the continued backing of Governor Hochul and state legislators.
“With their unwavering support, the Council is proud to congratulate this year’s grantees, whose collective efforts strengthen and benefit us all,” he said, adding that NYSCA’s staff and volunteer panelists played a critical role in distributing the funding.
Founded in 1960 under Governor Nelson Rockefeller, the New York State Council on the Arts is tasked with strengthening creativity statewide. For FY 2026, the Council will award over US$161 million in total support to artists and organizations across all 10 regions of the state as New York’s arts community continues its post-pandemic recovery.
