AKRON, OH – (February 25, 2025) – As ArtsNow celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organization is thrilled to announce the return of ArtsForward for its third year, an initiative dedicated to fueling creativity and cultural vibrancy.

Opening for applications on March 1, 2025, ArtsForward provides grant opportunities for artists and arts organizations to develop projects that inspire engagement and enrich the community. Since its inception in 2023, the program has:

• Awarded 95 grants to support local arts and culture initiatives
• 36% of grants supporting individual artists
• 64% of grants supporting nonprofit organizations
• Invested over $870,000 in advancing the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan

“As we mark a decade of championing the arts, we are thrilled to expand our commitment through ArtsForward,” said Nicole Mullet, Executive Director of ArtsNow. “This initiative embodies our mission to strengthen and invest in creative communities, fostering artistic expression and collaboration.”

Artists and organizations interested in applying can find details at artsnow.org/artsforward.

As ArtsNow celebrates this milestone year, they invite you to share how the nonprofit has impacted you or your organization. Whether it’s a memorable project, a moment of inspiration, or a lasting takeaway, its team would love to hear from you. Share your story here: bit.ly/ArtsNow10.

For the past decade, ArtsNow has worked to harness the power of arts and culture to strengthen Summit County’s economic and social vibrancy. Learn more at ArtsNow.org.