Civic & Cultural Life
Cultural Arts
Houston's cultural life reflects the city itself: expansive, ambitious, and drawn from every corner of the world. Our arts institutions offer experiences that rival those of any city in the country, and they belong to all Houstonians.
The McNair Foundation believes that a thriving arts community enriches civic life, brings people together across differences, and helps define the character of the place we call home.
Giving Focus
Our cultural arts giving is concentrated on Houston's flagship institutions in the performing and visual arts. These organizations anchor the region's cultural life by creating and curating work of the highest caliber. They also shape their programming to reflect the many cultures that make Houston what it is, and we're proud to support that work.
We believe that sustained support for these anchor institutions is where our resources can have the greatest and most lasting effect. By focusing our commitment, we aim to be a reliable, long-term partner to the organizations amplifying Houston as a world-class city.
What This Means for Prospective Applicants
Because of this focus, we are generally unable to fund smaller or emerging arts organizations, individual artists, or single events and festivals through our cultural arts program. This reflects the limits of our resources and the strategy we've chosen, not a judgment about the value of the work. Houston's smaller arts groups contribute enormously to the city's creative energy, and we hold their work in high regard.
If your organization falls outside this focus, we encourage you to explore the grant programs offered by Houston Arts Alliance and the Houston Endowment which support organizations of every size.
Civic Assets
Houston's greatest strength is its people, and we believe they deserve access to parks, green spaces, museums, and cultural spaces where they can connect, learn, and play. The McNair Foundation supports civic assets that make Houston a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
Giving Focus
Our civic giving is focused on signature projects of citywide significance. These might include a major park expansion or restoration, a new facility at a beloved cultural or community landmark, or a significant capital initiative at one of the region's leading hospitals.
We look for projects that serve Houstonians broadly, leave a lasting mark on the city, and are led by organizations with the vision and capacity to see ambitious work through. Often these efforts draw together public and private partners, and we value the opportunity to join others in shaping a better Houston.
What This Means for Prospective Applicants
Because our resources in this area are dedicated to signature projects, we are generally unable to provide general operating support, fund routine maintenance or ongoing programs, or support smaller neighborhood-scale initiatives. This reflects the strategy we've chosen, not a judgment about the importance of that work, which is vital to the fabric of Houston's communities.
“Our wish for Houston is that it will continue to grow and prosper, creating educational and economic opportunity for all. It is an honor and privilege to give back to the organizations that have meant so much to our lives. We are tremendously proud to serve our community.”
— Robert C. and Janice McNair