City leaders are asking Albuquerque’s arts community to show off its best ideas.
Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 funding cycle of the city’s Urban Enhancement Trust Fund. Nonprofit arts and cultural organizations, collectives or community groups are encouraged to apply, particularly those that have never received an award.
The goal is to support projects that enrich and enhance the urban environment in creative ways, City Marketing Manager Tanya Lenti said.
The Urban Enhancement Trust Fund has a long-standing commitment to supporting programs that celebrate cultural diversity, foster creativity and strengthen community bonds, according to a press release announcing the start of the application period.
“Grants awarded in this cycle will fund projects that will make a lasting impact,” the release states.
Those projects could potentially include cultural festivals, exhibitions, performances and youth engagement programs.
“Albuquerque is home to a rich and diverse art scene that you won’t find anywhere else,” Mayor Tim Keller said. “We’re always looking to create more opportunities to support our local artists and will continue to invest in projects that fuel creativity and beautify our community.”
The application deadline is Jan. 20.
Urban Enhancement staff will host an information session Thursday and will host regular Zoom office hours during the month of December. More information about eligibility criteria, application guidelines and session and Zoom details can be found here.
Those interested in learning more should send questions to uetf@cabq.gov or call (505) 768-3585.
“UETF seeks to provide funding for projects that address the needs of the diverse communities that comprise Albuquerque,” the release states. “This two-year funding cycle will prioritize projects that positively impact residents, neighborhoods and communities by providing direct access and increased opportunities for quality cultural activities and programming by, for and about a broad representation of our city’s population.”
The Urban Enhancement Trust Fund was established in 1985 with just under $6 million. Since 1986, the program has funded hundreds of arts and cultural projects using 90% of the interest earnings derived from the trust.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
WHAT: Informational meeting for the FY 2026-27 UETF funding cycle.
WHEN: 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12.
WHERE: Community Room, South Broadway Cultural Center
1025 Broadway Blvd. SE.
VIRTUAL: UETF staff will also host regular Zoom office hours during the month of December; dates to be announced.