Special Initiatives

Targeted, time-limited support beyond our core programs

The majority of Barr’s grantmaking extends from the Foundation’s core program
strategies: Arts + Creativity, Climate, and Education.

From time to time we initiate additional work consistent with our mission of
service and commitment to the long-term strength, vitality, and resilience of our region.

Racial Wealth Equity

The Racial Wealth Equity Initiative addresses the persistent racial wealth gap, one of the most important levers to advancing racial equity.

Racial Wealth Equity

Black Economic Council of Massachusetts

Boston Waterfront

The Waterfront Initiative aims to create a waterfront that welcomes and reflects the diversity of all Boston neighborhoods.

Learn More

Locals rest in the grass during a meditation event along the Boston waterfront.

Boston Harbor Now

Recent Grants

Embrace Boston, Inc.

To support its acquisition of a property in Downtown Boston, Massachusetts as well as operations for its Everyone 250 work

Award Date: 06/30/2026
Amount: $400,000
Term: 24 months
Program:
Arts + Creativity Click to see more of the Arts + Creativity program Special Initiatives Click to see more of the Special Initiatives program
Strategy:
Advocating for the Arts Click to see more of the Advocating for the Arts strategy Racial Wealth Equity Click to see more of the Racial Wealth Equity strategy

Community Music Center of Boston

To support general operating

Award Date: 06/30/2026
Amount: $1,000,000
Term: 12 months
Program:
Arts + Creativity Click to see more of the Arts + Creativity program Special Initiatives Click to see more of the Special Initiatives program
Strategy:
Elevating Arts Leadership Click to see more of the Elevating Arts Leadership strategy Racial Wealth Equity Click to see more of the Racial Wealth Equity strategy

Mystic River Watershed Association, Inc.

To support projects and efforts to develop climate resilience, greenways, and waterfront access

Award Date: 06/09/2026
Amount: $1,275,000
Term: 36 months
Program:
Climate Click to see more of the Climate program Special Initiatives Click to see more of the Special Initiatives program
Strategy:
Climate Resilience Click to see more of the Climate Resilience strategy Waterfront Initiative Click to see more of the Waterfront Initiative strategy

More Special Initiatives Grants