What We Fund

The Perenchio Foundation is dedicated to supporting the vitality and long-term future of the visual and performing arts organizations that serve as cultural anchors throughout Los Angeles County. We invest with intention — building relationships designed to outlast the duration of any single grant.

Priorities

At the heart of our mission is a profound belief in the transformative power of the arts. We recognize the essential role that the arts play in building equitable, culturally vibrant, and inclusive communities. The arts are not a luxury—they are the connective tissue that enriches every dimension of our lives.

Our place-based commitment to LA County is intentional. The region is a mosaic of diverse cultures, and our commitment flows from understanding that arts organizations form the backbone of their communities. These institutions serve as vital gathering places, fostering connections and enriching the lives of community members. LA County also stands at the forefront of artistic innovation and expression. Investing in arts organizations nurtures the ongoing evolution of the cultural sector while advancing the practice and mastery of craft. By focusing our efforts here, we support organizations that both serve local communities and contribute to far-reaching artistic dialogue.

Funding Opportunities

We prioritize investing in organizational infrastructure because we understand that a resilient and thriving arts sector creates a healthier, more vibrant region for all. Informed by ongoing conversations with Los Angeles arts leaders, our grantmaking centers on two things: operating support and capital improvements — the investments that allow organizations to grow, adapt, and endure.

  • General Operating Support

    Multi-year, unrestricted support is a cornerstone of our commitment to operational resilience. These grants enable organizations to navigate unforeseen challenges, compensate staff equitably, and plan strategically.

    Note: General Operating Support is the only grant type offered on a multi-year basis. Capital Improvement and programmatic grants are awarded to address a specific need or gap.

  • Capital Improvements

    Physical infrastructure and technology are as essential to an organization’s longevity as its programming. We fund equipment, technology, and project-based building renovations – the investments that allow organizations to operate with stability and serve their communities for generations to come.

  • Invitation-Based Opportunities

    In addition to our open calls for applications, we carefully select organizations for support through an invitation-only process. This allows us to engage proactively with organizations whose work aligns closely with our mission — and to invest where our support can make the most meaningful difference.

    When considering organizations for invitation-based opportunities, we look for:

    • A strong history of providing arts access
    • A proven track record of delivering high quality arts programming
    • Established staffing infrastructure and diverse funding sources
    • Long-standing partnerships with underfunded communities 
    • Deep engagement and reach with underserved areas of LA County

Funding Opportunities

We prioritize investing in organizational infrastructure because we know that a resilient and thriving arts sector contributes to a healthier, more vibrant region overall. Driven by what we have heard in conversations with local arts leaders, the majority of our grantmaking is focused on operating support and capital improvements. These grants aim to bridge funding gaps and foster operational sustainability, helping arts organizations build capacity and expand their ability to create impactful experiences for their communities and future generations.

General Operating Support Grant Our Operating Support Grant is a cornerstone of our focus on the long-term sustainability of arts organizations. This multi-year, unrestricted support is intended to help bolster operational resilience, enabling grantees to navigate unforeseen challenges, compensate staff equitably, and plan strategically.

Capital Improvements Grant Recognizing the challenges that organizations often face in securing funding for essential technology upgrades, equipment replacements, and small-scale building renovations, our Capital Improvements Grant aims to support these critical needs. We believe that a solid foundation, both in physical infrastructure and technological capabilities, is crucial for organizations to thrive in the long term.

What We Do Not Fund

The Foundation does not fund:

  • Event sponsorships
  • Individuals
  • Tutoring and homework-focused organizations
  • Summer camps
  • Political campaigns and lobbying efforts

 

How We Engage

We receive hundreds of applications through our open calls. Therefore, we do not accept unsolicited proposals, and funding opportunities beyond the two listed above are by invitation only. Invitation-only consideration is offered at the Foundation’s discretion and through an established relationship with our team. We are not able to respond to inquiries seeking invitation-only consideration.

We respect the time it takes to prepare a strong proposal — and we ask organizations to apply only when we have confirmed alignment and readiness together.

To stay informed about future opportunities, sign up for our email updates here.

Our Grants Awarded page reflects the breadth and depth of the organizations we are proud to support. Current funding opportunities are posted on our General Operating Support and Capital Improvements pages.

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Perenchio Foundation: 800 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 840, Pasadena, CA 91101