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Vilcek Foundation's Grant Cycle for 2026: Empowering Nonprofits

In a significant move to support immigrant contributions in the arts and sciences, the Vilcek Foundation has allocated $212,000 to twelve nonprofit organizations across the United States. This funding comes as part of the foundation's second open-call grant cycle and is aimed at initiatives that uplift immigrant narratives and foster creative engagement. This year, the Vilcek Foundation received close to 2,000 applications, marking a 46% increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing need for support among nonprofits dedicated to these causes.

The Impact of Immigrant Contributions

Rick Kinsel, President of the Vilcek Foundation, emphasized the importance of recognizing immigrants as integral parts of American society. He stated, "Immigrants are essential to the fabric of the United States, yet their contributions are often overlooked or undervalued." The foundation remains committed to amplifying immigrant voices and backing organizations that create meaningful change within their communities.

As of 2026, the Vilcek Foundation has awarded more than $7 million in grants over its 25-year history, impacting organizations in 40 states, two territories, and Washington, D.C. This year’s grants extend the foundation’s reach into eight new states, broadening its geographic footprint and supporting diverse community-driven projects.

2026 Grant Recipients

The selected organizations represent a wide array of initiatives that share a common goal: to celebrate and uplift the narratives and talents of immigrants through the arts and sciences. Here are this year's notable grantees:

• - Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, Omaha, NE - Awarded $20,000 to support the Indigenous Voices performance series, highlighting contemporary Indigenous artistry.
• - Radio Boise, Boise, ID - Received $20,000 to fund their immigrant-focused project, "Amplify Boise Music, Migration, and Community Voice," promoting local storytelling through music.
• - Brattleboro Museum & Art Center, Brattleboro, VT - This organization will utilize a $20,000 grant for a solo exhibition by Turkish artist Hayal Pozanti and a related symposium.
• - City of Asylum/Detroit, MI - A $5,000 grant aids their programs which focus on supporting foreign-born writers in exile.
• - Counterpublic, St. Louis, MO - A $20,000 grant will help fund various artistic installations by immigrant artists for their upcoming triennial event.
• - Additional grants were awarded to Del Vaz Projects, Delaware Contemporary, The Immigrant Story, Japanese American National Museum, National Performance Network, Rhode Island Latino Arts, and Voices Jackson Hole. Each recipient is utilizing the funding in innovative ways to promote immigrant narratives and engage broader audiences.

Expanding Future Opportunities

The 2026 grant period will run until August 31, 2027, during which time recipient organizations will implement their funded projects, fostering community engagement and artistic expression. With the application window for the Vilcek Foundation’s 2027 grant cycle now open, nonprofits are encouraged to apply through March 31, 2027, providing a renewed opportunity to receive essential funding for their impactful work.

The Vilcek Foundation not only raises awareness of immigrant contributions in the United States but also nurtures appreciation for the arts and sciences. Established in 2000, the foundation continues to play a vital role in supporting diverse voices and fostering creativity across the nation.

For more details on eligibility and past recipients, visit vilcek.org/grants.