The Phyllis C. Wattis Foundation celebrates the critical role artists have in creating a thriving Bay Area, and the equally important support provided by arts organizations in helping sustain artists and their creative work.

Through its grantmaking, the foundation aims to mitigate the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Bay Area artistic ecosystem. In recognition of the disparate effect on specific communities, the foundation prioritizes support for Black, Indigenous, artists of color and those historically marginalized by persistent cultural, economic, and racial barriers.

The foundation issues grants twice per year, focused on two main programs:

• Legacy Grants (invite-only): general operational support for organizations with a demonstrated commitment to providing comprehensive services for artists by helping them advance artistically and professionally.
• New Works Grants: project support for new and emergent works created by small and mid-sized arts organizations.

If you are interested in applying for New Works funding, please review the New Works guidelines carefully to determine eligibility.