UPAF Announces Affiliate Program Becomes Fully Unrestricted Grant Initiative

Milwaukee, WI (May 25, 2021) – The United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) announced that it is further opening its eligibility for the UPAF Affiliate Grant Program, changing from its previous project-based grants to a fully unrestricted grant initiative. The Affiliate program enables UPAF to provide financial resources to organizations beyond their 14 Member Groups, all of which play an important role in supporting the creative vibrancy and cultural diversity of the community.

“It is important for UPAF to aid performing arts organizations in successfully returning to core creative offerings after an incredibly difficult 16 months,” said UPAF President & CEO Patrick Rath. “In the past, many organizations would not apply because they simply did not have a specific project or the funding required was greater what UPAF was able to provide. This change affords us the opportunity to work with a greater cross section of potential recipients as well as continually evolving and broadening our geographic reach.”

Applications are being accepted now through June 11, 2021 from eligible 501(c)(3) qualifying organizations. Funding varies year to year, based on the applications received. All Affiliate funding decisions will be announced following UPAF Board of Directors approval in October, 2021.

Applicants must be a tax-exempt organization with a performing arts based mission. For additional information on applicant criteria or to apply for the Affiliate program, please visit https://upaf.org/about/who-we-support/affiliate-groups/become-affiliate.

About UPAF

The United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) has been setting the stage since 1967 by providing critical investment in our region’s vibrant performing arts scene. UPAF’s mission is to secure community resources, promote the performing arts as a regional asset and improve the quality of life through responsible investment in and financial support of the performing arts in Eastern Wisconsin. In 2020, dollars generated through fundraising totaled $11,358,693, with an additional $304,000 raised in grant revenue. UPAF proudly bears Charity Navigator’s highest distinction for nonprofits – a four-star rating – and is the No. 1 united arts fund in the country in terms of dollars raised.

UPAF works in partnership with its 14 Member Groups and numerous Affiliates to ensure more than one million people are inspired each year through performances, educational outreach, special events and community partnerships. UPAF Cornerstone Groups include First Stage, Florentine Opera Company, Milwaukee Ballet, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Skylight Music Theatre. Member Groups include Bel Canto Chorus, Black Arts MKE, Danceworks, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), Next Act Theatre, Present Music and Renaissance Theaterworks.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.