$10 million arts grant program renewed by Jody Allen for the third year

Philanthropist Jody Allen and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation are continuing their support for the arts in Washington State with the renewal of the Community Accelerator Grant program for 2025.

The initiative distributes $10 million in flexible funding to nonprofit arts and cultural organizations throughout the state.

Launched in 2023 and administered by ArtsFund, the program offers unrestricted grants ranging from $2,500 to $25,000.

This means recipients can use the money however it’s most needed—whether that’s paying staff, running programs, or simply keeping the lights on.

The goal is to provide arts organizations with the stability and freedom they often struggle to find through traditional, more restrictive funding.

The 2025 cycle marks the third year of the program.

What sets this program apart is its commitment to equity.

It prioritizes funding for organizations that are often overlooked—those led by or serving BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, LGBTQ+ groups, people with disabilities, and rural populations.

The application process is intentionally streamlined to reduce administrative burdens and expedite funding.

Since its inception, the Community Accelerator Grant has awarded over $20 million to more than 900 organizations in nearly every county in Washington.

More than 90% of grantees return each year, demonstrating the value of the support they receive.

This initiative reflects the Allen family’s deep commitment to the Pacific Northwest and their belief in the power of the arts to build stronger, more connected communities.

By offering flexible, inclusive support, the program is helping local organizations not just survive, but thrive.