Schnitzer Cares @ PSU

This Senior Capstone course, offered by Portland State University and led by Suzanne Savaria, is an opportunity for students to serve as an independent grantmaking committee. Expressly focused on arts and culture nonprofits in Oregon, grantmakers will distribute $25,000 this fall according to the priorities outlined in their mission statement below.

As Portland State University's Philanthropy for Arts and Culture cohort, we are dedicated to funding pathways for underserved and marginalized communities within the state of Oregon through the transformative power of art. We believe Oregonians deserve access to arts and cultural exploration, enriching the lives of those it serves. The priority is to support small to medium sized nonprofit organizations, but this does not exclude large organizations who are willing to collaborate with smaller nonprofits in an effort to reach their intended communities. By fostering inclusive spaces within the broader community, we aim to amplify diverse voices and cultural narratives, ensuring that the art we support not only reflects but also addresses the unique experiences and needs of underrepresented populations.

October 7: Mission statement available online

October 21: Applications due by 11:59pm

October 31: Applicants receive an interview invitation or a declination

November 27: Applicants who interviewed will be notified about final decisions.

December 4: Grant Awards Ceremony