The Howard Gilman Foundation, founded in 1981 by philanthropist Howard Gilman, is devoted to creating a vibrant future for artists and artistic disciplines in New York City. Through strategic grantmaking, they offer steadfast support to performing arts organizations in the city, ensuring its cultural landscape thrives. The foundation envisions an equitable and flourishing performing arts ecosystem, with ample philanthropic backing, where all performance traditions and conversations are cultivated and cherished.

They strive for an inclusive environment where everyone can access and afford the vibrant arts scene, while fostering authentic connections between arts organizations and the community. Honouring Howard Gilman's belief in the transformative power of the arts, the foundation provides funding and assistance to New York City-based performing arts organizations, reflecting the city's cultural diversity. They focus specifically on dance, music, and theatre, and are devoted to artistic freedom, authenticity, and work that resonates with audiences.

The Howard Gilman Foundation is dedicated to their legacy and actively seeks to contribute to the wider performing arts community with honesty, kindness, flexibility, and generosity