Supporting small grassroots organizations that expand access to arts, culture, and creativity within communities of color

Arts and creativity that bolsters communities and advances critical conversations can come from many angles, including from arts organizations of all sizes. Historically in the arts field, long-term, flexible funding has disproportionally flowed to large and well-established organizations. Meanwhile, smaller organizations—many that have been creating equally bold, inspiring, and impactful work—have been without access to similar kinds of funding.

Catalyzing Vitality supports smaller grassroots organizations that expand access to arts, culture, and creativity, serving as platforms and resources within and for communities of color. Their commitment to artistic development, partnership, experimentation, and the celebration of cultural heritage enlivens the Commonwealth, with several of these organizations claiming titles such as “first,” “only,” and “largest.”

Each organization receives a three-year, general operating support grant and opportunities to engage in shared learning related to organizational development.