Culture Works has launched the 2026 Campaign for the Arts, rallying the Dayton region in its annual community fundraising drive to provide critical operating support for local arts and cultural organizations.

Running from March through June 30, the Campaign for the Arts engages individual donors, businesses, and employees through workplace giving, making it easy for everyone to support arts and culture as part of their workplace’s community efforts.

Workplace campaigns include presentations, arts engagement, entertainment, and opportunities for employees to learn how their contributions support the region’s creative sector. Local businesses hosting Workplace Giving Campaigns include Dayton Children’s, Montgomery County, City of Dayton, Messer Construction, Premier Health, and Sibcy Cline.

Funds raised through the Campaign for the Arts support Culture Works’ Community Arts Grants program, which distributes operating support to local arts organizations across the Miami Valley. These grants are reviewed and awarded by panels of community members, ensuring that funding decisions reflect community priorities and needs.

“Through the Campaign for the Arts, our community comes together to unlock the power of the arts across our region,” said Lisa Hanson, President & CEO of Culture Works. “Every contribution — large or small — helps open doors for artists, students, and audiences. Simply put, your gift is the key to ensuring the arts continue to thrive in our community.”

Organizations receiving funding through Culture Works are: Dayton Art Institute, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, The Human Race Theatre Company, K-12 Gallery & Tejas, Muse Machine, Discover Classical, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, the Bach Society of Dayton, and The Contemporary Dayton.

In addition to strengthening the region’s cultural landscape, the arts also play a significant role in the local economy. According to Americans for the Arts’ Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, the Dayton region’s arts and cultural sector generates $239 million in economic activity annually, supporting 4,490 full-time equivalent jobs, $154 million in household income, and $43 million in local, state, and federal tax revenue.

The Campaign for the Arts also funds advocacy efforts that promote the value of arts investment and ensure the arts remain accessible and sustainable throughout the community.

Individuals who contribute $85 or more become Culture Works members and receive a Culture Works Passport to the Arts, which includes Buy One, Get One ticket offers at participating arts organizations and discounts at select restaurants and retailers throughout the region.

Donations can be made online, by mail, by phone, or through workplace payroll deduction programs offered by participating employers.