3-31-2025 8:23pm

Five Warren County Arts Programs Are Recipients of ArtsWave Grant Awards

Beth Callahan Editor

Story & photo contributed by Game Day Communications

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- ArtsWave, the engine for the arts in the Greater Cincinnati region, has awarded $316,916 through 56 Catalyzing Impact grants to support a diverse array of arts and cultural projects (see list below). These grants, part of ArtsWave's annual funding initiatives, will fuel creative endeavors across the region, from innovative performances to community-driven art installations.

ArtsWave's Board of Directors approved the grants following a competitive review process. The Catalyzing Impact grant program, ArtsWave's most accessible funding opportunity, is open to all nonprofits proposing arts projects that align with the organization's Blueprint for Collective Action.

"These grants represent ArtsWave's commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive arts community that reflects the diversity of our region," said Alecia Kintner, President & CEO of ArtsWave. "By supporting projects that range from youth education to senior engagement, we're ensuring that the arts continue to play a vital role in connecting our community and driving economic growth."

Among the 56 funded projects, five are based in Warren County, supported by funds raised within the community, part of ArtsWave’s pilot campaign strategy to “meet donors where they are.” This strategy enables residents and businesses, particularly in Northen Kentucky and the Northern Suburbs to support projects that will directly impact where they live:

Neighborhood Play Expansion 2025 by Back2Back Ministries, a summer camp program featuring trauma-informed arts and educational activities. ($9,000)

Royal Education Series by Royal Theatre Company, offering theater education courses covering performance, technical skills and creative development. ($2,790)

Summer Youth Camp and Fall Clinics by Springboro Wind Symphony, a youth music camp that will establish the inaugural Springboro Youth Wind Symphony. ($8,000)

ArtScape Lebanon Pottery Studio by Warren County Arts Council, bringing pottery classes and cultural education to an underserved area. ($10,000)

Lebanon Festival of the Arts by Warren County Historical Society, a collaborative community festival showcasing visual and performing arts across the region. ($5,000)

“The arts don’t just entertain—they shape the identity and vitality of a community,” said Daniel Cunningham, CEO of the Cunningham Institute for Growth. “These projects will bring new energy to Warren County, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and making our communities even better places to live and work.”
The Catalyzing Impact grant program is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts and is primarily funded through the annual ArtsWave Community Campaign. This year's campaign aims to raise over $12.5 million to support the arts sector's recovery and growth.

"Every dollar contributed to the ArtsWave Campaign translates into experiences that enrich our community," Kintner added. "These grants are just one example of how public support for the arts creates a ripple effect of creativity and connection throughout our region."

The Cincinnati region's reputation as an arts destination is largely due to the community's longstanding support of the ArtsWave Campaign. To contribute to the 2025 ArtsWave Community Campaign and help fuel more innovative arts projects, visit artswave.org/give.

For the full list of projects supported by these Catalyzing Impact grants, visit artswave.org/catalyzing.

About ArtsWave:

ArtsWave fuels the Cincinnati region’s arts, supporting 150+ organizations, projects and artists each year. Since 1927, it has been the primary way the region funds the arts, raising millions annually from tens of thousands of individuals, businesses and foundations to drive a more vibrant economy and connected community. Through the Blueprint for Collective Action, ArtsWave strategically makes investments that maximize the arts’ impact across the region. To learn more and give to the 2025 community campaign, visit artswave.org/give.