Charlene Victor and Ella J. Weiss Cultural Entrepreneur Fund

Charlene Victor and Ella J. Weiss Cultural Entrepreneur Fund

Funder: Brooklyn Arts Council, funded by the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA)

Geographic Scope: Brooklyn, NY

Overview: Honors the legacy of Brooklyn Arts Council's founder, Charlene Victor, and former president, Ella J. Weiss. Designed to support the professional development of Brooklyn's emerging and mid-career women artists and arts administrators.

Award Amount: $2,500 per recipient (2025: $25,000 provided to 11 artists)

About Namesakes

Charlene Victor founded Brooklyn Arts Council in 1966, creating a platform to support individual artists in Brooklyn through vibrant arts programming and services. She expanded the organization's mission to provide grants to artists in 1980 and was dedicated to creating equity in access to arts experiences for Brooklyn residents.

Ella J. Weiss served as Brooklyn Arts Council's President from 1999–2015. She expanded programs and brought stability and leadership to the organization, forging the foundations for its prominent force in the cultural scene. Under her leadership, BAC enhanced partnerships with the borough and with city and state agencies, and introduced innovative new professional services for artists and cultural groups.

Eligibility

• Woman-identifying artists and arts administrators
• Emerging and mid-career level
• Based in Brooklyn
• All students (including full-time students) are eligible
• Cannot have already sought funding from NYC Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) in the same cycle

Focus

• Professional development
• Entrepreneurial skills for sustainable creative careers
• Leverage creative passions with business acumen

Contact Information

Email: grants@brooklynartscouncil.org Phone: 718-625-0080 Address: 10 Lafayette Avenue, Suite 4, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Timeline

• Applications Open: September 4, 2025
• Applications Close: November 7, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
• Project Period: Calendar year 2026

How to Apply

1. Review Guidelines: Thoroughly review the 2026 Application Guidelines (available in English and Spanish)
2. Attend Info Session (Recommended): Join an upcoming Grants Info Session for tips on writing a successful proposal
3. Submit Online: Submit application via Submittable
4. Click Apply Button: Use the "Apply Now" link on the Cultural Entrepreneur Fund page

Application Materials

• Complete online application form via Submittable
• Professional development proposal/plan
• Background and artistic experience
• Budget information
• Additional materials as specified in 2026 Application Guidelines

Additional Support

• Application Draft Review Available: For first-time and returning applicants
• On-Demand Info Sessions: Available for those who cannot attend live sessions
• FAQ Page: Comprehensive answers to common questions

Important Notes

• Applications must be submitted online via Submittable by November 7, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
• Review panel selection process determines awards