May 17, 2024 – The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation announced today the launch of its annual Social Impact Theatre grant program, providing production-specific support to theatres igniting positive changes in their communities, and – new this year – change capital to support theatres making bold changes with the goal of increasing their sustainability.

“The health and longevity of the American theatre ecosystem, and doing what we can to support that health and longevity, is incredibly important to us,” said Sheri Biller, Foundation President. “By adding these change capital grant awards to our social impact theatre grant program, the Foundation is reflecting our hope to see a vibrant, sustainable theatre sector for generations to come.”

“We know with the current challenges facing the theatre sector, budgetary margins are razor thin for organizations wanting to make bold change,” said Audrey Haberman, Foundation CEO. “And yet, we know that in this time of challenge the sector will apply its boundless creativity to adapt models and practices to remain sustainable. As the Foundation launches this new grant opportunity, we are excited and honored to learn directly from theatres about the innovations taking place to reimagine the theatre ecology.”

The Social Impact Theatre grant program supports theatres with 501(c)(3) status, at least two years of operating history, and annual operating revenue of at least $1,000,000. Production-specific grants can cover artistic, production, audience engagement, and community outreach expenses for one production that must stage a minimum of 15 performances. Change capital grants will be made in three categories: supporting new leaders with capacity to implement their vision, new business models, and new programs or projects to build and deepen connection to community.

This announcement coincides with the release of the initial application, which is due on Friday, June 7, 2024. The initial application and additional grant program details can be accessed here.

About The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation

The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation believes that everyone deserves access to systems and solutions that expand economic opportunity, supportive care for life-threatening illnesses, and the transformative power of the arts. The Foundation was founded in 2001 by Sheri and Les Biller. For more information, please visit The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation’s website at www.billerfamilyfoundation.org.