One of the largest sources of funding in the arts field, the National Endowment for the Arts is a federal program that provides financial support to artists and organizations in all areas of the arts. Nonprofit galleries are eligible for funding under the Visual Arts program, which covers a variety of mediums, from painting to sculpture to photography. Galleries should decide which of the NEA grants best suits their funding needs. The NEA offers the Access to Artistic Excellence program, with grants as high as $150,000; the $10,000 Challenge America Fast-Track grant to "extend the reach of the arts to underserved populations," and the Learning in the Arts for Children and Youth grant, which also has a maximum amount of $150,000.
National Endowment for the Arts
1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20506
202-682-5400
nea.gov
In addition to the National Endowment for the Arts, other government organizations help support the arts, including galleries, around the country. Most states have a governmental organization to help support local art, as do many large cities. For example, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs gave out over $152 million in grants during the 2009 fiscal year. Gallery owners and operators should research opportunities in their locations. More information on local arts agencies is available at the National Endowment for the Arts website.
New York City Department of Cultural Affairs
31 Chambers St.
New York, NY 10007
212-513-9300
nyc.gov
Many galleries also receive significant funding from private foundations and individuals. Organizations such as the Foundation Center can help arts administrators tailor searches to their particular needs and geography. For example, the Lily Auchincloss Foundation awards numerous grants to museums and galleries in New York City's five boroughs. When applying to private foundations, art administrators should be aware of the foundation's particular interests and the organizations they have chosen to fund in the past.
Lily Auchincloss Foundation, Inc.
16 East 79th St., #31
New York, NY 10075
212-737-9533
lilyauch.org