2026 Arts Alive Grants to Support Local Cultural and Community Projects

White Plains, N.Y. (January 20, 2026) – A new round of Arts Alive Grants will provide vital funding opportunities to artists, collectives, and small arts groups in Westchester and Rockland counties.

Supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, the Arts Alive program acts as a cornerstone of ArtsWestchester’s mission to ensure equitable access to the arts for all residents. The grants, which range from $1,000 to $7,500, help bridge gaps in areas where access to cultural programming has historically been limited. The application opens Tuesday, Jan. 20.

“NYSCA is delighted to support this opportunity and provide critical arts funding for Westchester and Rockland counties,” said Erika Mallin, Executive Director of NYSCA.  “We encourage all eligible organizations and artists to apply and look forward to supporting your impactful, creative work. “

“The Arts Alive grant category is one of ArtsWestchester’s most effective means of supporting activities for the region’s geographically, economically, and ethnically diverse populations,” said ArtsWestchester CEO Kathleen Reckling. “This opportunity helps to ensure that residents throughout the region have access to the arts, particularly in areas where access is limited.”

Last year, ArtsWestchester distributed 52 Arts Alive grants totaling $105,500.

Funding for the program comes from the Statewide Community Regrant program, a regrant initiative of the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Administered by ArtsWestchester, these funds enable the creation of an array of public events, workshops, and performances.

Key Dates for Applicants:

• Application Period Opens: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
• Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 3, 2026

About ArtsWestchester

For more than 60 years, ArtsWestchester has been a champion for artists and arts groups throughout Westchester County, working to ensure that local communities have opportunities to experience the power of music, art, dance and the written word. Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is the largest private not-for-profit arts council in New York State. Its mission is to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable Westchester County in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life.

For press-related questions, contact: Ernie Garcia, Thompson & Bender, 914-762-1900.