New Jersey Arts Grants

The Monmouth County Municipal Park Improvement Grant Program is designed to assist municipalities by providing additional funding for park improvements in municipal parks and open spaces. This program aligns with the broader mission of enhancing community well-being and access to recreational opportunities. Previously, the Municipal Open Space Grant Program was limited to $2 million annually and up to $250,000 per project. The new and expanded grant program is now funded at $6 million a year, with up to $500,000 available per project, significantly increasing its reach and potential impact. The program's scope has also expanded to include dredging projects for parks and recreation purposes, and the application process has been simplified and streamlined to encourage broader participation. The target beneficiaries of this program are Monmouth County municipalities, which are the only eligible applicants. While municipalities are the direct recipients, the ultimate beneficiaries are the residents and communities who will gain access to improved park facilities and recreational areas. The impact goals are centered around improving land for parks and recreation purposes. This includes the development of new recreational facilities, the expansion or enhancement of existing recreational opportunities, the preservation of historic resources within parks, and the implementation of new or innovative approaches to provide local access to open spaces and recreational activities. The program prioritizes projects that focus on these key areas. Additional priority is given to State-designated Urban Aid Communities and Overburdened Communities, ensuring that resources are directed to areas with the greatest need. The program’s strategic approach includes setting limits on the number of applications and the dollars awarded to ensure that funding can support a larger number of municipalities rather than a few large projects. This also encourages a cooperative project model, with a required local contribution and local funding of ineligible expenses serving as a tangible demonstration of local commitment. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the number and quality of recreational facilities, expanded access to open spaces, and better preservation of historic resources within parks. The allowance for dredging projects directly contributes to improving and expanding access to recreational bodies of water. All projects must be for park, recreation, open space, and historic preservation purposes, with a deed of open space easement or other covenant restricting the use of the project site to these purposes required as a condition of the award. This ensures the long-term dedication of these sites to public benefit, reflecting a theory of change that by investing in local park infrastructure, communities will see improved quality of life, increased public health through active recreation, and enhanced environmental and cultural stewardship.

The Essex County Division of Cultural and Historical Affairs, in partnership with the New Jersey Historical Commission and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, offers grant funding to local Essex County organizations. This program aims to support cultural and historical initiatives within the county, aligning with the broader mission of preserving and promoting arts and history. The grants are designed to enable organizations to expand their programs, exhibits, performances, and other public engagement opportunities, ultimately enriching the cultural landscape of Essex County. The program targets non-profit organizations incorporated in New Jersey as a non-profit corporation or a unit of government, and tax-exempt under IRC 501(c)3 or (c)4. These organizations must be located in Essex County and primarily serve its constituency. The grants are intended to support entities exclusively devoted to either history or arts, and previous grantees must be in good standing. This focus ensures that the funding directly benefits the local community and strengthens organizations dedicated to cultural and historical preservation. The grant program offers two main types of support: General Operating Support (GOS) Grants for the overall operations of eligible non-profit organizations, and Special Project Support (SPS) Grants for specific history-related or art-related projects. The funding ranges from $500 to $10,000, with funds applied for in 2024 to be used between January and December 2025. This structure allows for both sustained operational support and targeted funding for new initiatives, providing flexibility to grantees. Expected outcomes include an increase in accessible cultural and historical programs, exhibits, and performances for Essex County residents. Measurable results would involve the number of programs offered, audience reach, and the successful completion of funded projects. The division's strategic priority is to empower local organizations to bring their offerings to a wider audience, thereby fostering a more vibrant and engaged community. Through quarterly networking, informational meetings, and professional development opportunities, the program also aims to build the capacity of these organizations, contributing to their long-term sustainability and impact.

The Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission, in partnership with the New Jersey Historical Commission's County History Partnership Program (CHPP), offers grants through its annual History Regrant program. This initiative aims to support historical organizations and history programming within Mercer County. The program's mission aligns with fostering an appreciation for local, county, and New Jersey state history by providing financial assistance to organizations dedicated to preserving and presenting this heritage. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include Mercer County-based non-profit organizations, particularly historic sites and historical organizations, as well as libraries, schools, and local government entities. These organizations must operate historic sites and/or offer historical programming and events. The program specifically emphasizes those with a focus on Mercer County and its communities, aiming to reach a broad public audience. The ultimate impact goal is to strengthen the historical infrastructure and engagement within the county. The program prioritizes both General Operating Support (GOS) and Special Projects (SP) grants. GOS grants are available exclusively to non-profit historical sites and groups with a primary mission of presenting New Jersey and/or Mercer County-related history. SP grants are open to a wider range of non-profit community organizations, local government entities, schools, higher education institutions, and libraries that offer programming and events related to local, county, or New Jersey state history. This dual focus ensures support for both established historical entities and diverse project-based initiatives. Expected outcomes include enhanced historical programming, improved preservation of historic sites, and increased public engagement with local and state history. The program seeks to support projects and organizations that demonstrate clear public benefit, responsible management, proven quality of work, and historical merit. Grants are awarded competitively by the County based on evaluation by an independent review panel, ensuring that funding goes to initiatives with the highest potential for positive and measurable results in historical education and preservation.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to New Jersey counties for initiatives that improve communication and language access services for residents who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind, ultimately aiming to reduce health disparities and enhance accessibility in public services.

The RSI Foundation Grant Program, administered through the Community Foundation of New Jersey, is designed to carry forward a long-standing tradition of community investment established by RSI Bank prior to its 2022 merger with Columbia Bank. This grantmaking initiative reflects a deep commitment to the communities historically served by RSI Bank and operates in close coordination with Columbia Bank Foundation and other philanthropic partners. Together, these aligned entities ensure that funding is directed toward initiatives that produce measurable, meaningful, and localized impact. The program’s philanthropic mission emphasizes community resilience, equity, and the strengthening of neighborhood well-being. The Foundation’s strategic priorities are concentrated in two central focus areas. First, it seeks to partner with and uplift marginalized populations—those who face barriers to meeting their basic needs due to economic, physical, mental, or social constraints. Second, it aims to improve neighborhood quality of life by supporting initiatives that foster health, happiness, and holistic well-being for community members. This dual focus reflects the Foundation’s theory of change: when communities address the unmet needs of their most vulnerable populations while simultaneously enhancing the shared community environment, they cultivate stronger, more equitable, and more resilient neighborhoods. The program’s target beneficiaries include both organizations working directly with individuals experiencing various forms of marginalization and initiatives that aim to strengthen community infrastructure and quality of life. The Foundation is particularly focused on funding work that delivers measurable benefits in Rahway, New Jersey, and surrounding communities within Union and Middlesex Counties. Projects supported through this grant must demonstrate direct relevance to these geographic and thematic priorities, ensuring that every dollar invested contributes to tangible improvements in local well-being and community vitality. To achieve its intended impact, the RSI Foundation employs clear and rigorous evaluation criteria for applicants. Organizations must identify and address a specific community need, present achievable and well-structured programs with defined goals, timelines, and budgets, and demonstrate a capacity to produce measurable outcomes. Grant amounts typically range from $2,500 to $25,000, with the total annual program budget between $10,000 and $100,000. This funding structure allows the Foundation to support both smaller grassroots initiatives and larger community-serving projects, maximizing the breadth of its local impact. Expected outcomes from funded initiatives include increased access to essential resources for marginalized populations, improved community health and wellness indicators, and strengthened neighborhood infrastructure and cohesion. By emphasizing measurable results and sustainable change, the RSI Foundation seeks to ensure that its grant investments translate into lasting benefits for the communities it serves. These outcomes align with the Foundation’s overarching goal of fostering neighborhoods that are not only more equitable but also more capable of thriving in the long term. Ultimately, the RSI Foundation Grant Program exemplifies place-based philanthropy rooted in community trust and strategic collaboration. By focusing on marginalized populations and community well-being, and by holding grantees accountable for clear and measurable outcomes, the Foundation positions itself as a catalyst for sustainable, locally driven change. This approach ensures that the legacy of RSI Bank continues as a living, evolving force for good—enriching communities, empowering organizations, and building more resilient futures for the residents of Rahway and its neighboring areas.

The Fund for Women and Girls (FWG), a field-of-interest fund of the Princeton Area Community Foundation, is dedicated to improving the lives of economically vulnerable women and children in greater Mercer County. This grant program aligns directly with the Community Foundation’s broader mission to enhance the quality of life for the most vulnerable in its regional footprint. It achieves this by investing in the community, providing educational opportunities, and fostering collaborative efforts with organizations that actively embrace diversity and inclusion. The FWG's commitment to diversity is comprehensive, encompassing age, race, gender identity, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, and disability, ensuring a wide-reaching and equitable approach to its philanthropic efforts. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are economically vulnerable women and children residing in Mercer County, New Jersey. The impact goals are centered on creating tangible improvements in their lives through support for various vital services and programs. These include early childhood education, childcare, and critical physical and mental health services for women and children, including prenatal care. The program also aims to foster leadership and mentoring opportunities, particularly for middle and high school girls, and support workforce development initiatives for women to enhance their economic stability and self-sufficiency. The FWG prioritizes projects and programs, as well as operating expenses, that fall within specific eligible categories. These categories reflect the foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change, which posits that investing in these areas will lead to significant positive outcomes for women and children. Key focus areas include combating domestic violence and providing prevention services, alongside offering comprehensive parenting and family support services. The emphasis on these areas indicates a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by vulnerable populations, aiming to build stronger, healthier families and communities. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the types of programs supported, the expected outcomes revolve around improved access to essential services, enhanced educational attainment, better health outcomes, increased economic independence for women, and a reduction in domestic violence. The grant typically provides one-year awards, mostly up to $25,000, which suggests an emphasis on supporting impactful, short-term to medium-term projects that can demonstrate clear progress within a year. The requirement for applicants to be tax-exempt 501(c)3 organizations, publicly supported charities, and registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs ensures accountability and good standing, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to effective and responsible community investment.

This funding opportunity supports small organizations in Philadelphia and surrounding areas to create inclusive and accessible arts and culture programs that engage diverse communities and enhance public access to the arts.

This grant provides financial support to New Jersey nonprofits that assist domestic violence survivors and their pets, helping them stay together during difficult times.

The Local Arts Program (LAP) Grant, administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission (SCC&HC), aims to support local arts development within Somerset County, New Jersey. This program is an initiative of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts (NJSCA) and is designed to channel funds to officially designated county arts agencies, with the SCC&HC serving as that agency for Somerset County. The grant's mission aligns with fostering public participation in the arts and increasing accessibility to artistic programs and services for Somerset County residents. The target beneficiaries are Somerset County-based non-profit organizations incorporated in New Jersey and designated tax-exempt (501(c)3 or (c)4), as well as Somerset County-based governmental agencies or commissions under a municipality or township. The primary impact goal is to enhance the local arts landscape by enabling organizations to offer programs that benefit residents and to improve the management of local arts organizations. The program prioritizes organizations that provide programs or services that increase access to the Arts, expand upon creative placemaking initiatives, or seek to improve the management of local arts organizations. Eligibility also requires that the proposed arts program or project takes place within Somerset County and directly benefits its residents. Programs within educational or religious institutions are generally ineligible unless they are after-school programs that are broadly advertised, open, and welcoming to the general public. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and accessible arts community in Somerset County, increased public participation in various artistic endeavors, and strengthened local arts organizations through improved management and program delivery. Grant applications are evaluated by an independent peer panel, ensuring a competitive and merit-based selection process. Recommendations for funding are then submitted to the SCC&HC for final approval, with grants authorized by resolution with the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners, reinforcing accountability and local oversight.

The IPromise Jeffrey M. Glabicki Memorial Giving Fund, supported by Volpe Koenig, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Greater Philadelphia area. This mission aligns with the foundation's goal of supporting programs that positively impact the community. The fund specifically targets organizations involved in Arts, Culture and Humanities; Community Development; Education and Research; Environment and Animals; Health, Human Services & Youth Development; and Veteran Services. By focusing on these broad categories, the fund aims to address a diverse range of community needs and contribute to a healthier, more vibrant Philadelphia Metro area. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations that are at least two years old, have an annual operating budget of less than $10 million, and are headquartered in and serve the population of the Philadelphia Metro area. This includes specific counties in Pennsylvania (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia) and New Jersey (Burlington, Camden, Gloucester). The impact goals are to support and empower these qualifying organizations to continue their vital work in the specified focus areas, ultimately leading to improved quality of life for the residents of the Greater Philadelphia region. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly outlined by the eligible categories for application. These include areas that promote cultural enrichment, strengthen local communities, advance knowledge and learning, protect the environment and animals, improve health and well-being for individuals and youth, and provide support for veterans. The foundation's strategic priorities are to make a significant impact by awarding a single $40,000 grant to a deserving organization, thereby concentrating resources to achieve meaningful outcomes within one of these critical sectors. The expected outcomes of this grant are to enable the selected organization to expand its reach, enhance its programs, or develop innovative solutions within its focus area. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the implicit theory of change is that by investing in established, impactful non-profits within these key sectors, the fund can foster positive social change and contribute to a thriving community. The eligibility criteria, such as the requirement for a 501(c)(3) status and a two-year operational history, suggest a focus on supporting organizations with a proven track record and capacity for effective program delivery. Ineligible organizations include those promoting religious or political activities, programs accessible only to paying members, scholarship or tuition assistance programs, endowments, government agencies, individuals, grant-making organizations, and past recipients within the last five years. These exclusions further refine the fund's strategic approach, ensuring that grants are directed towards direct charitable operations that serve the broader public and avoid duplication of previous efforts. This focused approach allows the fund to maximize its impact by supporting direct service providers in alignment with its mission.

This program provides financial assistance to developers in distressed New Jersey municipalities to help cover costs for various real estate projects impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This funding opportunity provides $10,000 per year for two years to organizations in New Jersey that create free arts-based learning experiences for older adults aged 55 and over, promoting creativity and engagement in the community.

This grant provides financial support to New Jersey companies for hiring Ph.D. candidates and graduates to conduct technological research and foster innovation in the state.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in Philadelphia and Camden to develop inclusive plans for improving green spaces in underserved neighborhoods, ensuring resident involvement and addressing historical inequities.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in Philadelphia and Camden that create free outdoor programs to help underserved communities access and enjoy parks, trails, and waterways.

The GEC solicitation outlines a focused grant program dedicated to combating foreign malign influence by initiating quantified and qualified research into the scope and scale of propaganda and disinformation operations within the digital ecosystems of games and game-adjacent platforms. This initiative is highly aligned with the GEC's core mission, which can be inferred as countering foreign interference and safeguarding democratic information spaces. By specifically targeting the often-understudied gaming environment, the program seeks to close a critical knowledge gap regarding how adversaries use these channels to manipulate or influence populations. The primary priorities and focuses of this grant are geographically centered on Eastern Europe, a region frequently targeted by state-sponsored disinformation campaigns. Methodologically, the focus demands rigorous, dual-pronged research—both quantified (data-driven metrics and scale) and qualified (in-depth analysis of content and methodology)—to accurately characterize the nature of foreign propaganda and disinformation within this digital space. This specificity ensures that the funded research will generate highly relevant and actionable intelligence for policymakers and platform owners alike, concentrating resources where the threat is most pronounced. The target beneficiaries of this work extend beyond the grant recipient to encompass a crucial coalition of stakeholders. The immediate beneficiaries include governments, private industry partners (gaming and tech companies), and civil society organizations who will be invited to a culminating convening. The ultimate impact goal is to empower these groups with the evidence and shared understanding necessary to develop and implement effective defense strategies. This aims to reduce the public's exposure to foreign manipulation and foster a more resilient information environment within Eastern Europe's gaming community. The expected outcomes are clearly defined as the production of a comprehensive research report detailing the findings, and the successful execution of a high-level, multi-sector convening to disseminate and discuss that report alongside related research. Measurable results will include the completion and quality of the report, the attendance and caliber of participants at the convening, and the subsequent discussions or policy recommendations generated. The GEC's strategic priorities are served by this program's Theory of Change: that rigorous, shared research leads to an informed, collaborative stakeholder network, which ultimately results in better-coordinated, data-driven countermeasures against foreign disinformation.

This grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations and local entities in Bergen County, New Jersey, to promote and preserve local history through various programs and projects.

This program provides unrestricted funding to small arts organizations rooted in communities of color, helping them sustain and expand their cultural practices while addressing systemic inequities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to New Jersey counties, municipalities, and school districts for improving public recreational facilities, particularly in underserved communities.

The MetLife Foundation is offering the Community Impact Grant Program, designed to bolster local grassroots organizations actively addressing the urgent needs of low-income individuals and communities heavily affected by the widening income and wealth gap. This grant program is deeply aligned with the Foundation’s overarching mission to drive inclusive economic mobility. By supporting organizations on the front lines, the program directly contributes to the Foundation's strategic priority of fostering equitable opportunities and outcomes for those most vulnerable to economic disparities. The primary beneficiaries of this program are people with low incomes and communities significantly impacted by the growing income and wealth divide. The program's core impact goal is to provide essential support and resources to these populations, helping to alleviate immediate emergencies and build long-term resilience. Through programmatic support, the Foundation aims to empower grassroots organizations to create tangible improvements in the lives of individuals and the well-being of their communities. The Community Impact Grant Program focuses on several key areas: Hunger Relief and Nutrition, Physical and Mental Well-Being, Environmental Sustainability, and Quality of Life. These focus areas reflect the Foundation's comprehensive approach to promoting holistic community health and stability. Organizations are encouraged to submit proposals that align with these areas, ensuring that the grant funding addresses critical needs and contributes to the overall theory of change, which posits that by investing in these fundamental aspects, communities can achieve greater economic mobility and improved quality of life. Expected outcomes include improved access to vital resources for low-income individuals, enhanced community well-being across the specified focus areas, and a strengthening of local non-profit infrastructures. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the grants, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, are intended to facilitate impactful programming that addresses emergency needs and contributes to sustainable community development. The program encourages applications from organizations with authentic relationships with low-income populations, suggesting a commitment to community-led solutions and a desire for meaningful, localized impact.