Union County Announces HEART Grant Applications Now Open for Non-Profits, Individual Scholars and Artists

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that applications for the 2026 Union County HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant program are now available for Union County non-profit organizations, individual artists and scholars.

"The arts, history, and education all play a powerful role in shaping who we are as a community," said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. "Through the HEART Grant, we've seen these recipients inspire others in meaningful ways that spark creativity, preserve history, and strengthen connections across Union County."

The HEART program serves as a catalyst for Union County's non-profit organizations, artists and scholars, enhancing their ability to connect residents with programs and activities. Along with civic groups and cultural organizations, past HEART Grant recipients have included individual poets, writers, historians, painters, photographers, musicians, dancers and more. Organizations can request a grant of up to $2,500, with a 25% cash match required for any amount over $1,000. Individuals can request up to $1,000, with no cash match required.

All projects funded under the HEART Grant Program must directly benefit Union County residents and increase appreciation for Union County history, the arts and humanities, demonstrating that cultural assets are a vital part of community life, education and well-being, economic development and cultural heritage tourism. Activities must take place between January 1 and December 31, 2026 to be considered for funding. Applicants must be Union County residents or Union County based non-profit organizations with programs taking place in Union County.

"Cultural assets are not only sources of pride, but also essential resources that enrich our quality of life and keep the spirit of Union County alive for future generations," said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board.

The application deadline for first-time applicants is Thursday, October 23, 2025. The full application must be completed by Thursday, October 30, 2025. The application is completed online, as hard copies are no longer accepted. To access the grant portal, please visit: https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=ucnj

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the HEART grant. For further information about this and other programs and services related to the arts and history in Union County, contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; telephone (908) 558-2550; or e-mail: [email protected] . NJ Relay users dial 711.