The Broome County Arts Council (BCAC) has successfully concluded its fundraising efforts for the 2026 United Cultural Fund (UCF), amassing an impressive nearly $316,000. This significant sum is earmarked for distribution to a wide array of beneficiaries within the local arts ecosystem, including individual artists and various arts organizations.
The BCAC officially announced on March 5th that the total raised reached $315,649. The council extended its sincere gratitude to all donors, acknowledging their vital contributions that have enabled a notable 2.78% increase in funds raised compared to the previous year. A particularly impactful contribution was highlighted: one generous patron’s donation facilitated a dollar-for-dollar match on $14,337 in new donations, effectively doubling the impact of those contributions.
A substantial portion of the funds, just under $250,000, will be allocated through UCF grants. These grants are designed to support a diverse range of projects that enrich the cultural landscape of Broome County. The funded initiatives promise to bring a vibrant array of artistic experiences to the community, including summer concert series featuring original musical compositions, a Black History Month Poetry Slam that celebrates diverse voices, the annual daVinci Arts Festival, a community mural project aimed at beautifying public spaces, a community choir fostering collective musical expression, and an ongoing community art workshop series, among many other exciting endeavors.
In a statement released on March 11th, BCAC Executive Director Jenny Chang expressed profound gratitude for the continued support of the UCF donors. She emphasized the profound and lasting impact these contributions have on the local community.
“The United Cultural Fund, now in its 39th year, has been a crucial engine for our community’s creative economy and has significantly enhanced the quality of life for our residents through its unwavering support of diverse arts programming and established legacy arts organizations,” Chang stated. “We are truly humbled and deeply grateful for the consistent and robust support from donors in our community who recognize the value of investing in the arts.”
The following are the recipients of the 2026 UCF awards, showcasing the breadth and depth of artistic talent and organizational commitment within Broome County.
United Cultural Fund General Operations Awards
The UCF General Operations awards are a cornerstone of the fund’s support, providing essential financial assistance to seven medium and large arts organizations and non-profit entities. These awards are crucial in “aiding their ability to provide quality community programs, services, and resources” to the public. The recipients of the 2026 General Operations awards are:
- Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra
- Roberson Museum
- Tri-Cities Opera
- Goodwill Theatre & Firehouse Stage
- Discovery Center of the Southern Tier
- Endicott Performing Arts Center
- Phelps Mansion Museum
United Cultural Fund Project Awards
In addition to the general operational support, fourteen individual artists and community projects have been recognized with $1,000 UCF grants. These project-specific awards enable the realization of innovative and impactful artistic endeavors across the county. The 2026 UCF Project grant recipients are:
- Binghamton Community Orchestra
- Binghamton Downtown Singers
- Binghamton Youth Symphony
- CARES Advocate for Families
- Department of Public Art
- Endwell Community Chorus
- Friends of Kilmer Mansion
- Matthew Wilson / Friends of the Broome County Public Library
- Music in the Glen
- Southern Tier Singers Collective
- Summer Savoyards
- The Binghamton Theatre Organ Society
- The Madrigal Choir of Binghamton
- Truth Pharm
The success of the United Cultural Fund is a testament to the collective generosity of a multitude of donors. A comprehensive list acknowledging all contributors can be found on the BCAC website, offering further insight into the community’s commitment to fostering a vibrant arts scene.
