Community Foundation Announces Grant Process is Open for Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Arts & Culture
Funding in three categories will support small to mid-sized arts organizations serving WNY
Buffalo, N.Y. – The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is now accepting applications for the 2025 Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Arts & Culture Initiative competitive grant process in three categories and the deadline to apply is September 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
In 2021, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation established endowment funds at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to support arts and culture in the eight counties of Western New York, plus Monroe County, in recognition of the key role arts and culture organizations play in a thriving economy.
Since the inception of the Arts & Culture Initiative, the Community Founda tion has prioritized community feedback in the creation of this annual funding opportunity. The result of these con versations is three funding opportunities for 2025:
Combined Capacity-Building and General Operating Funds: $15,000 for organizations with at least one full-time (or one FTE) staff member to help build the solid foundation necessary to pursue an ambitious mission and vision.
General Operating Micro Grants: Up to $2,500 for organizations with less than one full-time staff member to execute immediate programming.
Year 2 Capacity Building and General Operating Funds for 2024 Grantees ONLY: Continued Capacity Building support to build upon the work started in 2025.
For Monroe County arts organizations: To simplify the process and communica tion, Rochester Area Community Founda tion will distribute funding for Monroe County. The expectation, where possible, is the funding will continue to align with the parameters set by the fund annually.
For additional details on eligibility and the grant opportunity, please visit https://www.cfgb.org/nonprofits/grants/ralph-c-wilson-jr foundation-arts-culture-initiative/
Applications are due September 12, 2025, at 4 p.m.