New York City announced the launch of NYC Create in Place, a new initiative for arts and cultural institutions at risk of losing their space and those looking to expand or relocate.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, first Deputy Mayor Maria Torres Springer and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo announced the initiative on Dec. 18, which includes the creation of a web portal that will be a centralized support system offering government resources, real estate opportunities, technical assistance programs and funding opportunities among other relief measures.
Small theaters, galleries and bookshops are among the institutions that will benefit from the portal across five boroughs, according to a press release.
The initiative is led by DCLA and includes the mayor's offices of media and entertainment, nonprofit services and the New York City Department of Small Business Services, among other city departments.
“NYC Create in Place will help them navigate resources and assistance programs, guiding them through challenges so they can maintain a lasting foothold in the communities they’re a part of," Cumbo said.
Adams said the initiative can serve as a lifeline for organizations whose work was negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Art and culture are woven into the fabric of every community in New York City, often driven by small, local spaces that serve as hubs for community and connection for New Yorkers," he said. "The COVID-19 pandemic left many of our cultural organizations threatened by many aspects, including funding and finding spaces in our city. 'NYC Create in Place’ will provide technical assistance and support to cultural and creative organizations that are facing long-term or acute challenges to preserve these incredible institutions and the value they bring to their communities.”
