Promoting Access

Along with supporting cultural institutions and artists, the Foundation is committed to diversifying the arts world behind the scenes as well.

Chicago’s world-class cultural organizations increasingly understand that their future depends on expanding their audiences and continuing efforts to connect with the diversity of the city. The Joyce Foundation supports such institutions as they seek to diversify their audiences, programming (notably through the Joyce Awards), leadership, and staff.

We also strive to increase the capacity and resources of culturally specific and community-based arts organizations. Additionally, we invest in Midwestern creative capital, partnerships, and community engagement through the Joyce Awards program. Lastly, we keep focus on innovations in the field that lead to broader, more diverse arts organizations, artists, and audience.

Theory of Change

Arts organizations that employ all levels of minority staff, offer programs with content expressing multiple ethnic viewpoints and include board members from different racial backgrounds will consistently attract diverse audiences reflective of the 21^st century population and therefore be vital community resources.