Mayor Eric Adams unveiled a historic $215 million investment in the city’s cultural sector, including a permanent $45 million baseline funding increase for the Department of Cultural Affairs.

The announcement coincided with the launch of the “Founded by NYC” campaign, celebrating the city’s 400th anniversary with events like 400 open street blocks and a Broadway concert series.

“These investments are good for our families, our cultural organizations, and the entire city,” Adams said, emphasizing arts’ role in unifying communities.

The funding will support over 1,000 groups, including expansions to the Cultural Institutions Group.

Commissioner Laurie Cumbo highlighted the timing amid federal arts cuts: “We baselined this budget because our institutions exemplify art’s power—not just due to federal challenges.”