Applications Now Open!
Over 800 Projects Funded Since 2002
(Schenectady, NY) The Schenectady County Legislature is announcing applications are open for the Arts & Culture Grant, formerly known as the County Initiative Program (CIP). Last year, the program was reimagined as the Schenectady County Legislature Arts & Culture Grant, with new ways for more organizations to get involved.
These grants, which are funded through the County’s hotel and motel occupancy tax, were created to help support local organizations’ activities in historic education, the performing, visual and literary arts, or programs promoting tourism. Since its launch in 2002, the program has awarded over $1 million in grant funding to support more than 800 arts, cultural, and tourism projects throughout Schenectady County.
“Schenectady County is filled with events and experiences that bring people together, enrich our lives, and boost the local economy,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “Our Arts & Culture Grant helps keep that momentum going, and we encourage organizations to apply and continue making our community a great place to live, work, and visit.”
Organizations interested in applying must meet these requirements:
- Be a 501(c)3 non-profit, school district, municipality, or community organization with an eligible fiduciary agent; and
- Host an event, programming, or experience in Schenectady County featuring the performing, literary, visual, or cultural arts, historic education, or to increase Schenectady County tourism.
Applicants can apply for up to two projects, which may consist of a single event or a series of events. Artists and groups without nonprofit status may apply by partnering with a qualifying agency, and a single agency may partner with multiple community organizations to help them secure a grant.
Applications are available online, and the deadline to apply is March 10, 2025. Email legislature@schenectadycountyny.gov with any questions.
In 2024, $120,000 was awarded to more than 60 projects through the grant program, including: Kids Arts Fest, Jazz on Jay, Village of Scotia Annual Fireworks Show, Glenville Oktoberfest, Schenectady Caribbean Day, Duanesburg Summer Theater Program, Porchfest Schenectady, Town of Rotterdam Summer Concert Series, Color the Canal, and Niska-Day.