Artwork by Zina Hall

Creative Growth is honored to announce that we have been selected as one of four organizations representing the Bay Area in the inaugural Craft Catalyst Initiative, a new national investment from the Center for Craft and Etsy that will provide $10 million to strengthen craft communities across the United States over the next three years. As one of just 20 organizations selected nationwide, and one of only four in the Bay Area, Creative Growth will receive a $100,000 unrestricted grant to support our mission of advancing the work and careers of artists with disabilities.

The Craft Catalyst Initiative recognizes regions where artists, makers, and cultural organizations come together to build thriving creative ecosystems. The Bay Area cohort includes Creative Growth, The Crucible, Humanmade, and the San Francisco Center for the Book, highlighting the region's longstanding leadership in craft, innovation, and community-based arts.

Unlike project-specific funding, this unrestricted grant gives Creative Growth the flexibility to invest where it is needed most, whether supporting studio programs, expanding opportunities for artists, strengthening infrastructure, or responding to emerging needs as our community continues to grow.

Artwork by Zina Hall

Organizations were selected based on their public commitment to supporting craft in their communities, research and interviews conducted in each hub, and guidance from a distinguished panel of national advisors with expertise in the field of craft. Additional hubs will receive support in future rounds.

In addition to funding, leaders from recipient organizations will participate in a yearlong cohort to navigate challenges, strengthen support systems for makers, and build pathways to ensure craft’s continued importance in daily and cultural life. The cohort will encourage connection and collaboration to create long-lasting ripple effects within and across craft hubs.