Newark launches new Creative Spaces Accelerator

Newark Mayor Ras

recently announced a new technical assistance program for creative spaces in the Brick City.

The Creative Spaces Accelerator supports arts and cultural organizations undertaking capital projects related to their facilities and spaces. Under it, five selected organizations will receive six months of training workshops and one-on-one consultations led by Artspace Consulting. The nonprofit organization specializes in artist-led development.

Beginning this fall, technical guidance workshops will focus on leadership, partnerships, project concept, cost analysis, location, funding, collaboration and communications. Selected participants will receive technical support on a specific creative space project. Assistance will cover moving to a new facility or renovating/expanding an existing venue.

Nonprofit organizations with arts- and culture-focused missions can apply by Aug. 1. Guidelines and the application are available here.



Baraka said the Creative Spaces Accelerator program will allow more artists to share the city’s stories and "be Newark and Proud of It."

“The arts are central to our work to transform Newark,” said . “We have created housing for artists, an arts district in our downtown around Harriet Tubman Square and unveiled and maintained the longest outdoor mural in the nation along McCarter Highway.”

'Artists ... are catalysts'

The mayor and 2025 Democratic gubernatorial candidate said the effort builds on his administration’s support of the arts and culture as well as developing dedicated spaces, especially as the city continues its post-pandemic recovery. stressed the creative sector's vitality to the economy, the city’s vibrancy and its quality of life.

According to him, the arts:

• Contribute more than an estimated $175 million to Newark’s economy;



• Support nearly 5,000 local and jobs;



• Generate $15.5 million in local and state taxes.

 

“When we support the arts, we strengthen our city economically and spiritually, enhancing its attractiveness to visitors and empowering our creative voices,” said .

“We want to provide technical support to artistic and cultural organizations who have an interest in energizing present and future neighborhoods and generations of artists,” said Newark Arts and Cultural Affairs Director fayemi shakur, who has spearheaded the city’s efforts on this front. “Artists are not just creators, they are catalysts. This program will ultimately help cultivate the continued growth of our city’s arts ecosystem.”

The city says future phases will include making several city-owned spaces available for renovation and leasing for cultural purposes.

“Artspace is delighted to partner on this program to help neighborhood organizations plan for the spaces they need to continue serving their communities,” said Artspace Lead Consultant Anna Growcott.

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