New York State Senator Christopher J. Ryan announced $80,000 in arts funding for six organizations across central New York on Wednesday (January 28).
The funds, which come from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), will support various arts initiatives throughout the region, helping organizations launch new programming, reach new audiences, cultivate new work, and cover essential operating costs.
“The arts contribute to the identity and fulfillment of Central New York,” said Senator Ryan. “Art brings people together in powerful ways–building up the soul of our communities even during the most turbulent of times. I’m proud to support these institutions as they create new opportunities and ensure the arts remain accessible to everyone across our region.”
The funding is part of a larger $161 million investment in the 2025-26 State Budget. NYSCA has awarded a total of $80.9 million in fiscal year 2026 to arts and culture nonprofits across all 10 regions of New York State, including a historic number of artists.
This investment comes at a critical time for many arts organizations across the state that are facing rising costs, declining revenue, and decreased federal and philanthropic support.
The Community Foundation of Central New York has also been active in supporting arts initiatives in the region. In recent grant cycles, they distributed over $1.3 million to charitable organizations in Onondaga and Madison counties, with significant portions going to arts and cultural institutions like the Everson Museum of Art, which received $40,000 to purchase new ceramic equipment and provide stipends for teaching artists.