What's Happening
Stay Connected
Receive the latest news, grant offerings, and community events.
(Boston, MA) The New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) is honored to receive a transformative gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This $17 million contribution represents the largest single gift in NEFA’s history. We accept this gift in the spirit in which it was given—as an investment in our long-term vision and sustainability, strengthening NEFA’s capacity as a social impact organization committed to the vitality of the arts through grantmaking, partnerships, and advocacy.
NEFA will strategically deploy this unrestricted support to address organizational, programmatic, and field needs, increasing our capacity to build, sustain, and fight for arts and culture in New England and beyond, and deepen our impact. The gift represents one component of a larger strategy focused on long-term stability and risk mitigation. As NEFA determines how to allocate these resources across programs and initiatives, the commitment to maximizing impact and addressing the evolving needs of the arts sector guides NEFA’s decisions.
In April 2025, NEFA published A Call to Collective Action, affirming the need for this scope of support for our sector in this moment and highlighting the significance of social impact in the arts.
"We are deeply grateful to MacKenzie Scott for her confidence in our work and her commitment to our organization. NEFA aims to bolster the effect of this historic gift in alignment with our new strategic plan as we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary," said NEFA executive director Harold Steward. "We've begun conversations about a multimillion-dollar investment in regional needs and opportunities and leveraging this gift to seed the next iteration of our national work, while remaining engaged in emerging international conversations and partnerships. This historic gift affirms NEFA’s position to stay committed to our mission and values during these turbulent times, together with other collaborative partners.”
Learn more about Mackenzie Scott’s support of the U.S. Regional Arts Organizations.
About NEFA
The New England Foundation for the Arts invests in artists and communities, fostering equitable access to the arts and enriching the cultural landscape in New England and across the United States. Founded in 1976, NEFA has grown into a vital national and international leader, advancing opportunities for artists and strengthening the arts infrastructure through grantmaking, partnerships, convenings, and knowledge sharing.
NEFA’s work is made possible through generous support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the six New England state arts agencies, private foundations, corporations, and individual donors. As NEFA approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, it continues to lead with creativity, resilience, and vision, affirming the vital role of the arts in civic life and advancing a cultural landscape where all people have equitable access to artistic expression. www.nefa.org.
Contact: Ann Wicks | 617-423-1390