At the Walter & Elise Haas Fund, we are committed to building a more equitable community by providing access and opportunity through collaboration with partners. We focus on investing in our Bay Area neighbors to foster a just and vibrant society for current and future generations. Our efforts span across the arts, economic well-being, Jewish life, and racial justice, aiming to create lasting impact through innovative and sustainable approaches.
The Creative Work Fund Grants program aims to facilitate new art projects by fostering collaborations between artists and various organizations such as nonprofits, schools, and public agencies. With a projected total of $775,000 in grants for June 2024, awards will range from $25,000 to $50,000, directed to the nonprofit partners collaborating with artists. Projects supported by these grants are diverse, with a completion timeline of two to three years, though longer projects are also considered. The program prioritizes projects where the creation of an artwork is central, and an active, genuine partnership between the artist (or artists) and the organization is key to the artwork's development. Furthermore, it seeks endeavors where the artist's creativity significantly contributes to problem-solving within the community, addresses important issues, or introduces audiences to new experiences. The fund encourages artistic challenges that blend imagination with organizational thinking, ensuring significant impact within communities in specified California counties. At least two-thirds of each grant must go towards the principal artists and the direct costs of creating the artwork. Artists from all disciplines are encouraged to apply, underlining the program's inclusivity and commitment to fostering a broad range of artistic expressions.