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About the Grant
The city is raising the ceiling on its artist grants for the first time in nearly two decades, giving New York’s creative community access to larger awards and additional resources to support their work.
For artists building their practice in New York City, access to funding can make a meaningful difference. From developing a new body of work to producing an exhibition, supporting a creative project or investing in materials, financial resources can help turn an idea into something tangible.
Now, the city is increasing its support.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) Commissioner Diya Vij have announced that city-funded artist grants will increase from a previous maximum of $5,000 to up to $10,000 - the first increase of its kind in nearly 20 years.
Through the program, DCLA provides funding to local arts organizations across the five boroughs, which then distribute grants to individual artists, collectives and small nonprofit organizations. The initiative recognizes the role creatives play in shaping New York’s cultural identity, strengthening neighborhoods and sustaining the city’s position as a global center for art and creativity.
More Than Funding: Resources for the Creative Process
Financial support is only one part of sustaining a creative practice. Access to the materials and resources needed to bring ideas to life matters, too.
Beginning in October 2026, DCLA’s Materials for the Arts program will introduce a dedicated monthly shopping day for artists who have received grants through participating local arts councils.
On the second Monday of each month, excluding holidays, eligible grantees will be able to book appointments to access materials that support their work. Artists should contact their local arts council to arrange an appointment.
For independent creatives navigating the costs of making and producing work, this additional resource offers another way to support their practice.
Artist Grants: What’s Open Now?
Applications are open in four boroughs, with Staten Island’s grant cycle expected to open in November 2026. Deadlines vary by borough, so artists should review the relevant program requirements before applying.
The Bronx
Bronx Council on the Arts
Application deadline: October 30, 2026
Supporting a diverse range of artists and arts organizations across the Bronx, the council offers funding through its Cultural Equity Grants program.
Apply: https://www.bronxarts.org/cegs
Brooklyn
Brooklyn Arts Council
Application deadline: October 11, 2026
Brooklyn Arts Council provides grants and other support to artists and arts organizations working across the borough.
Apply: https://www.brooklynartscouncil.org/what-we-do/grants
Note: The published deadline of October 11, 2026, has passed as of October 12. Check the council’s website for any updates.
Manhattan
Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC)
Application deadline: November 12, 2026
LMCC supports Manhattan-based artists, arts groups and community-focused organizations whose work contributes to the borough’s cultural life.
Apply: https://lmcc.net/resources/manhattan-arts-grants/
Queens
New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA)
Application deadline: November 17, 2026
NYFA administers the Queens Arts Fund, providing grants to artists and arts organizations working in Queens.
Apply: https://www.nyfa.org/awards-grants/
Staten Island
Staten Island Arts
Applications expected to open: November 2026
The organization supports artists, collectives and nonprofit organizations creating original work, producing cultural programming and advancing arts education across Staten Island.
Learn more: https://statenislandarts.org/grants/