Pillar 2: Artist Service Programs

Artist Service Programs were established to meet the needs of the cultural artists we serve.

Since World Arts West’s inception in 1978, many cultural dance organizations have increased their numbers but not their financial stability.

Two smiling older women in colorful African-inspired clothing and headwraps pose indoors, one holding a thermos.

World Arts West research shows many cultural dance organizations are under-resourced despite continuing to positively impact community health, happiness, and cultural richness.

With this in mind, World Arts West is committed to creating programs that impact the sustainability and professional development of cultural dance organizations and our communities.

Woman wearing a colorful African headwrap and white dress, adjusting an earring in an indoor setting

We provide capacity building support for cultural artists and dance companies to create long term sustainability for a healthy cultural arts ecosystem.

Group of costumed performers posing with wooden staffs inside a tent

Current Programs

  • Costumed performers and spectators celebrate at an outdoor St. Patrick’s Day festival, with a dancer in a green feathered costume interacting with a child.

    The Grants Accelerator Program (GAP)

    Provides capacity building support to help an annual cohort of cultural artists and dance companies access grants funding. 

  • Group of South Asian dancers in black tops and red skirts posing in expressive choreography against a black backdrop.

    The Special Artists Commission Program (SAC)

    Supports large scale, innovative projects that otherwise might not be realized. World Arts West supports artists/organizations with fundraising, promotion and admin.

  • Diverse group posing together outdoors in front of a Thai Buddhist shrine

    Cultural Dance Catalyst Fund

    Supports California-based cultural dance organizations whose work sustains and uplifts diverse cultural traditions, advances well-being in their communities, and strengthens connections across generations. 

  • World Arts West Career Pathways Roundtable: Nonprofit Boards webinar flyer featuring facilitator Dr. Anne Huang and panelists Tamara Alvarado, Nadhi Thekkek, and Laura Elaine Ellis, May 7, 2024 on Zoom.

    Career Pathways Roundtable

    Facilitated dialogues for cultural artists to share their road maps to successful careers in the cultural arts sector, including philanthropy, education, arts administration, and events production.