Monroe County Executive Adam Bello unveils major new grant opportunity to support mid-sized arts organizations in 2025

Monroe County, New York – In a continued effort to uplift its vibrant creative sector, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has announced the launch of a new grant application aimed specifically at supporting mid-sized arts organizations in 2025. The initiative marks a significant boost in funding for local cultural groups, offering critical financial support to sustain day-to-day operations.

Eligible organizations can now access the online application and FAQs by visiting www.monroecounty.gov/artsgrant. The deadline to apply is firmly set for 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

“Monroe County continues to increase investments in our creative economy. When I first took office, Monroe County allocated only $45,000 to mid-sized arts organizations. This year, we are investing a combined $1,350,000 in community festival funding and mid-size arts funding,” said County Executive Bello. “These unprecedented investments help stabilize organizations and impact the quality of life of our residents by ensuring that we proudly remain a community of the arts.”

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The funding will be distributed to qualifying arts and cultural organizations to help cover their operating expenses in the upcoming year. How much funding each group receives will depend on a few key factors: the number of applicants, the strength of their proposals, and the overall funding pool available.

To be considered for the grant, applicants must meet a series of criteria:

• The organization must be based in Monroe County, with at least 50% of its operations conducted locally and a physical presence within the county;
• It must be legally recognized for at least one year as a 501(c)3 nonprofit or an LLC with proper tax filings;
• Its core mission must revolve around arts and culture;
• Its annual operating budget must fall between $50,000 and $4,000,000.

This funding is part of a broader effort by the county to invest in its cultural infrastructure and recognize the role the arts play in shaping community identity and local vitality. From theater groups to art galleries and music ensembles, mid-sized organizations are often the backbone of a region’s artistic landscape, yet they face increasing financial pressures to keep the lights on.

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To help interested applicants understand the process, Monroe County is hosting a virtual training session at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5. This session will include a live Q&A and is open to all eligible organizations. Registration for the session can be completed on the grant website. For those who can’t attend live, a recording of the session will be made available afterward.

This latest announcement builds on a broader push by County Executive Bello to grow Monroe County’s creative economy and ensure the arts remain a thriving part of everyday life. With the county now investing over a million dollars in community festivals and arts grants, it’s clear that cultural funding is no longer an afterthought—but a strategic priority.

For mid-sized arts groups, the grant represents not just a financial lifeline, but a vote of confidence in their work and their role in shaping Monroe County’s cultural identity.

Arts leaders, organizers, and community supporters are encouraged to explore this opportunity and ensure their applications are submitted before the early September deadline.