The DCLA Premier Grants, funded through the Greater New York Arts Development Fund (GNYADF) of the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, provide project-based funding to Staten Island artists, collaborative groups, and community arts organizations. With awards ranging from $750 to $3,000, this grant supports art and cultural programming that includes a public component, such as exhibitions or performances at local venues. The program is open to all artistic and cultural disciplines, including under-resourced fields like Folk Arts, Film, and Literature for the 2025 cycle.

Eligibility requires that applicants focus on creative expression and cultural significance while presenting clear objectives and realistic plans and budgets. Projects must demonstrate community interest, address under-resourced disciplines or communities, and ensure accessibility per ADA standards. Applications from organizations receiving direct Department of Cultural Affairs funding in the same fiscal year, those with budgets over $100,000 for two of the last three years, or projects that lack a public component are ineligible. Additionally, ineligible expenses include capital improvements, general operating costs, and non-arts-related administrative expenses.

The application window opened on November 13, 2024, and will close on January 31, 2025. First-time applicants must attend an information session, the schedule for which is available on the program's website. During the grants season, the program offers one-on-one support sessions with Grants Administrator Gena Mimozo for applicants who have attended an information session and need further guidance on proposals.

Applications are evaluated based on work samples, community benefit, narrative completeness, and budget feasibility. Work samples must demonstrate the applicant’s readiness and artistic merit, while proposals should clearly outline the public accessibility and cultural significance of the project. Budgets are assessed for realism and alignment with project needs, prioritizing artist fees, materials, marketing, and administrative expenses directly related to the project.

Successful applicants will create projects that effectively engage the Staten Island community, prioritize under-resourced disciplines, and maintain artistic and cultural excellence. For further assistance, prospective applicants can contact Gena Mimozo at gmimozo@statenislandarts.org or (718) 447-3329 x1003.