About Us

We lead, strengthen and amplify the voices of a cultural community that ignites creativity, inspires people and is essential for a healthy region.

We believe Greater Philadelphia is defined by its arts and culture sector: Our cultural organizations, artists, and proud history of creative expression are a crucial part of our identity, vitality, and economic growth. As a membership and service organization working on behalf of this sector, we believe in supporting the growth of arts organizations and their audiences; working to keep the arts in schools; preserving the diverse cultural activities in our communities; and empowering arts and cultural organizations to make a difference in our neighborhoods.

Since 1972, we have played a key role in ensuring the health and vitality of arts and culture in Greater Philadelphia. In 1991, we helped establish the Philadelphia Cultural Fund (PCF); In 2008, we worked to re-establish a stronger Office of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy (OACCE); In 2009, we led the successful statewide battle to defeat the proposed “arts tax”; and in 2014, we successfully advocated for increasing the budget for PCF grantmaking programs, including restoring Youth Arts Enrichment Grants which provide project support for arts-education programs serving K-12 students in the Philadelphia School District.

The Cultural Alliance leads, strengthens and amplifies the voices of more than 400 member organizations who generate over $4.1 billion in economic impact for the region. Our members, as well as the cultural community as a whole, count on the Alliance for signature research reports on the health and growth of the sector; grantmaking in partnership with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts; robust professional development and membership services; marketing and audience development through our signature consumer marketing programs, Phillyfunguide.com and Funsavers; and leadership in policy and community engagement through our advocacy initiatives.

The arts and culture sector makes Philadelphia a world-class city, and makes our region one of the most exciting creative destinations in the country. We work on behalf of that sector. We believe in the power of arts and culture. 

In June 2024, the Board of Directors adopted a new strategic plan. 

If you value the work of the Cultural Alliance, please consider a generous contribution to support these vital programs for the region's cultural sector.