Applications Set To Open for Fairgame Grants Supporting Creative Programs

SCHENECTADY — The Upstate Theater Coalition for a Fairgame has announced the fifth annual Fairgame Arts Grants, offering funding for non-profit arts and cultural organizations across the Capital Region, Catskills and Southern Tier of New York. 

Eligible non-profit organizations in 27 counties can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to support creative programs that enrich their communities. 

The Upstate Theater Coalition for a Fairgame was established through a partnership between New York State and the casinos of these three gaming regions: Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady, Resorts World Catskills, del Lago Resort & Casino and Tioga Downs Casino Resort. Coalition members include prominent cultural institutions such as Bardavon Presents, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Clemens Center, Palace Performing Arts Center, Proctors, Rochester Broadway Theatre League, Saratoga Performing Arts Center and more. 

The coalition launched the Fairgame Arts Grants program to support arts and cultural organizations in its regions. Since 2019, the program has awarded nearly 100 grants, distributing over $300,000 to empower creative initiatives and enrich local communities. 

Last year, $167,000 Fairgame Arts Grants were awarded to 44 non-profit arts and cultural organizations in the three New York state casino regions. Locally, those included Opera Saratoga – $5,000, Saratoga Chamber Players, Inc. – $4,000, and The Orchard Project – $5,000. 

Grant applications open on Monday, Feb. 3, and must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 20. Guidelines and application forms are available at www.afairgame.net. For additional inquiries, email info@afairgame.net.