Seattle-based ArtsFund and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation have announced the launch of a second round of unrestricted grants totaling $10 million in support of arts and culture across Washington State.

Part of the Community Accelerator grant program—funded by the foundation and administered by ArtsFund—launched in October 2022 in response to continuing declines in arts and culture support following the COVID-19 pandemic—the grants continue to prioritize organizations that center BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities, and those located in rural communities in 35 of the state’s 39 counties. In its first round of grants in April, the program awarded $10 million to 671 groups.

“The initial round…taught us so much about the positive impact unrestricted funding has on arts and culture organizations,” said ArtsFund president Michael Greer. “Recipients have been able to address their specific needs and invest in their missions and essential roles serving communities across Washington State.”

“[The program] shows the power of this community-driven model, and the impact that can be made when organizations themselves choose how to use urgently needed funds,” said Paul G. Allen Family Foundation executive director for partnerships and programs Lara Littlefield. “Arts and culture organizations are central to vibrant and healthy communities, and we recognize the broader need to empower these organizations.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/gregobagel)