The Union County Board of County Commissioners is now accepting applications for the 2027 HEART Grant Program. Funding is available to Union County nonprofit organizations, individual artists and scholars for projects that bring local history, the arts and humanities to residents throughout the County.
“Union County is home to an incredibly talented and diverse creative community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Through the HEART Grant Program, we are proud to help local artists, scholars and organizations turn their ideas into meaningful programs that educate, inspire and bring people together.”
HEART, which stands for History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands, supports projects that increase appreciation for Union County history, the arts and humanities. Since its inception, the program has helped civic and cultural organizations, as well as individual poets, writers, historians, painters, photographers, musicians, dancers and other creators, share their work with the public.
Nonprofit organizations may request up to $2,200. A 25 percent cash match is required for grant requests exceeding $1,000. Individual artists and scholars may request up to $1,000, with no cash match required.
“The HEART Grant Program recognizes that arts, history and culture are essential parts of a strong and connected community,” said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca Williams, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “These grants give local creators and organizations an opportunity to share their knowledge and talents with the wider community. I encourage anyone with an eligible project to explore the program and apply.”
Projects must directly benefit Union County residents and demonstrate how cultural resources contribute to community life, education and well-being, economic development or cultural heritage tourism. Eligible activities must take place between January 1 and December 31, 2027.
Applicants must be Union County residents or Union County-based nonprofit organizations presenting programs within Union County.
First-time applicants must apply by Friday, October 23, 2026. All completed applications must be submitted by Friday, October 30, 2026. Applications must be completed online, as hard-copy submissions are no longer accepted.
The HEART Grant Program is coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation.
For additional information about the grant or other arts and history programs offered by Union County, contact the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; call 908-558-2550; or email culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ Relay users should dial 711.