NEW ORLEANS — The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy (OCE) has announced a temporary pause of the Cultural Economy Funding Program for the Fiscal Year 2026 Grant Cycle. The decision comes amid ongoing Citywide budget constraints and impending budget cuts for 2026.
OCE recognizes that many local arts and culture organizations have already lost vital funding and is deeply concerned about the impact this will have on the communities they serve. The office expressed that it is troubled by the inability to fill this gap or offer grants in the manner it once could.
“This decision was not made lightly and follows a careful review of our current fiscal priorities and available funding,” said Frederick Delahoussaye, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy. “Our office deeply values the artists, culture bearers, and creatives who make New Orleans unlike any other place in the world. Although we are unable to provide the same level of financial support in the coming year, we will continue to advocate for much-needed resources while advancing partnerships and initiatives that strengthen our creative and cultural communities.”
These challenges underscore the importance of working together at every level — with City Council, the incoming administration, and partners across all sectors — to ensure that the cultural ecosystem of New Orleans continues to thrive.
Updates on future funding cycles will be shared at nola.gov/cultural-economy-funding-program, on social media (@embracetheculturenola), and in the Cultural News You Can Use newsletter as soon as they become available.
About the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy
The Mayor's Office of Cultural Economy is dedicated to fostering economic growth and vitality within New Orleans' diverse cultural sectors. The mission of OCE is to create an environment where artists, creatives, and cultural producers can thrive, contributing to the overall economic well-being of our city. For more information, visit nola.gov/next/cultural-economy/.