ArtsWave launched its 2026 community fundraising campaign in February, marking the Cincinnati-based organization’s 99th year in operation. The campaign, chaired by attorney James Zimmerman of Taft, Stettinius & Hollister, runs through May 19 and carries the theme “Discover More.” ArtsWave describes itself as the largest community arts campaign in the nation, with funds distributed to more than 150 arts organizations, artists, and projects across the greater Cincinnati region.

Early results showed strong momentum: thousands of donors pledged more than $2.3 million before the campaign’s public launch, and a $99,000 challenge grant from Western & Southern Financial Group—offered in recognition of ArtsWave’s 99th year—had already surpassed its goal. An additional $135,000 was contributed through the Executive Leaders for the Arts initiative, which draws $5,000 commitments from business and civic leaders. Campaign chair Zimmerman said the region’s arts strength reflects “decades of intentional, collective investment.”

The campaign supports programs including BLINK, the large-scale light and art festival, and More Arts, More Kids, which provides arts field trips to nearly 20,000 students annually in districts including Cincinnati Public Schools, Hamilton City Schools, and Ludlow Independent Schools. ArtsWave President and CEO Alecia Kintner leads the organization. Donations can be made through workplace campaigns, direct giving, and special events at artswave.org.

Source: Northern Kentucky Tribune