Charlene Victor and Ella J. Weiss Cultural Entrepreneur Fund

The Charlene Victor and Ella J. Weiss Cultural Entrepreneur Fund supports the professional development of Brooklyn-based women artists and arts administrators through an annual grant program administered by the Brooklyn Arts Council. With funding provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs via the Greater New York Arts Development Fund, this initiative honors the legacies of Charlene Victor, founder of Brooklyn Arts Council, and Ella J. Weiss, its former president, both of whom were pivotal in advancing equity and opportunity in Brooklyn’s cultural sector. Each year, the fund awards $2,500 grants to selected individuals for professional development purposes, such as workshops, artist residencies, conferences, boot camps, or fellowships. The grant is strictly intended for individual growth and not for project execution, general operating expenses, or capital improvements. It supports Brooklyn women who are invested in sustaining creative careers and contributing to the borough’s cultural life. Activities must occur within the calendar year and conclude with a final report by mid-January the following year. Applicants must be Brooklyn residents and identify as women artists or arts administrators. Priority is given to those with a strong track record of community service and advocacy through the arts. Applicants must submit a detailed activities narrative, a professional development budget totaling exactly $2,500, and documentation including proof of residency or employment at a Brooklyn-based nonprofit, a resume or bio, and up to five work samples. Applications are submitted through Submittable, and all materials must be completed online by the published deadline. The application opens on September 4, 2025, and closes on November 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. The selection process is led by a diverse panel of Brooklyn-based cultural workers. Applicants may also attend optional information sessions to strengthen their submissions. Selected grantees must sign a contract, submit a W-9, and comply with branding and reporting requirements. Post-award responsibilities include attending a grantee orientation and submitting a final report no later than January 15, 2027. The fund is highly competitive and emphasizes clarity, feasibility, and community impact in its selection criteria. Applications are judged on the strength and clarity of the proposed development activities, alignment with community-centered artistic values, and the applicant’s ability to execute their plan within the one-year term. The program underscores the Brooklyn Arts Council’s continued mission to foster sustainable, equity-focused cultural entrepreneurship in the borough.

Attend info sessions for guidance; clearly articulate activities and goals; demonstrate community service and realistic planning