Arts and Culture Programming
Arts and Culture Programming supports artists and community organizations creating public performances, exhibitions, and other cultural experiences that expand equitable access across Greater Philadelphia.
Funder: William Penn Foundation
Due Dates: October 22, 2026, 5:00 PM ET (proposals)
Funding Amounts: $3.5 million available; previous grants ranged from $30,000 per year to $350,000 total, for up to two years
Summary: Supports public arts and culture experiences that expand access for diverse audiences in Greater Philadelphia.
Key Information: The lead organization must have annual operating expenses below $750,000.
Description
The William Penn Foundation seeks proposals for performances, exhibitions, and other publicly accessible arts and culture projects that connect more people in Greater Philadelphia with high-quality creative experiences. Projects may span a single discipline or several, and may serve a neighborhood, city, or county. Supported disciplines include dance, design, folk and traditional arts, literary and media arts, music, musical theater, opera, theater, visual arts, and multidisciplinary arts.
The foundation prioritizes work that addresses historic inequities in access, particularly for communities of color, immigrants, people living in poverty, and disability communities. Projects should be shaped by skilled artists or culture bearers, welcome people of diverse abilities and backgrounds, and demonstrate how the experience will benefit its intended audience.
