PECO has introduced a new competitive grants program that will help community-based organizations reach new and diverse audiences and reduce barriers to their participation.
The Powering the Arts grant program offers one-year or two-year grants of up to $10,000 per year for a maximum of $20,000 over two years to support new or ongoing efforts to attract diverse audiences and rebuild arts communities across the region.
According to preliminary analysis of a recent survey by the Greater Philadelphia Culture Alliance, PA Humanities, and PA Museums, 86% of the arts and culture organizations in Southeastern PA acknowledged efforts to develop and increase engagement with diverse groups including BIPOC, AAPI, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, low-income individuals, immigrants, and aging or returning citizens.
“We recognize the importance of equitable access to art and culture in our communities and advocate for opportunities that will enhance engagement as organizations work to recover from the pandemic,” said Romona Riscoe Benson, Director, Corporate and Community Impact, PECO. “This new grant will not only support recovery efforts in our region but will also further the work that is needed to ensure diversity, equity, access, and inclusion.”
Applications for the PECO Powering the Arts grant are open from July 1 through August 31, 2022. The applications, along with further details on program eligibility and award structure, are available on peco.com/community under the Charitable Contributions page.
- A virtual workshop will be held at 10 a.m. on July 12, 2022, to highlight the application process, share examples of the types of projects that will be eligible, and identify trends in audience development. To attend the workshop, you must sign up by contacting nancy@theburdgroup.com
- Applications will be reviewed by a panel of PECO representatives and local individuals representing the local arts and culture sector. Selected grantees will be announced on October 15, 2022. For more information, contact Nancy Burd at nancy@theburdgroup.com.