PHOTO: Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance / Photo: Reynaldo Garcia Pantaleon
The Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone (UMEZ) invests in arts and culture as drivers of economic vitality and community well-being. Through the Cultural Investment Fund, UMEZ supports nonprofit cultural organizations and artist-led initiatives that strengthen Upper Manhattan’s creative ecosystem and expand community access to the arts.
Our approach focuses on building long-term sustainability. We invest in the leadership, systems, and strategies that allow organizations to grow, adapt, and serve their communities more effectively. These investments help organizations increase audience engagement, support local employment, and contribute to a vibrant local economy.
In partnership with public and private funders, UMEZ supports a range of organizations, from established cultural institutions to artist-led initiatives and small nonprofit organizations. Together, these efforts reinforce Upper Manhattan’s position as a vital center of cultural activity and creativity within New York City.
Focus Areas
PHOTO: Classical Theatre of Harlem Production of the Three Musketeers / Photo: Jill Jones
Capacity-Building
We support organizations in strengthening their foundation for long-term sustainability.
Capacity-building investments help cultural organizations plan for the future and strengthen their operational effectiveness. Funding may support strategic planning, staffing capacity, fundraising and marketing systems, or improvements to facilities and infrastructure.
By strengthening core operations, these investments help organizations expand their reach, deepen community engagement, and strengthen financial stability over time.
Artist and Small Nonprofit Support
PHOTO: Marta Blair PHOTO BY: Cristobal Vivar
We support artists and small organizations in bringing more cultural programming to Upper Manhattan.
Through programs like UMEZ Arts Engagement, we fund artist-driven projects and small nonprofit organizations to present accessible, public-facing work. These grants are designed to expand the diversity and frequency of cultural offerings across Upper Manhattan neighborhoods and ensure that residents can experience a wide range of creative expression close to home.
This support helps artists and organizations sustain their work, build audiences, and contribute to the cultural life of Upper Manhattan.
Technical Assistance
PHOTO: Jazzmobile / Photo: Hubert Williams
We connect organizations with specialized expertise to address specific operational and strategic challenges.
Technical Assistance grants support partnerships with consultants who help organizations address specific operational or strategic priorities, such as financial management, income diversification, governance, marketing strategy, or organizational systems.
These projects are designed to provide practical, actionable support that strengthens organizational effectiveness and long-term sustainability.
Want to apply, find out about eligibility and restrictions, contact us?