About Our Network
We’re looking for artists who desire to LEARN how to: 1. Center liberation and self-determination in their artistic practice, vision, and leadership. 2. Prioritize sustainability and collective care, valuing fair compensation, rest, and long-term wellbeing of themselves and collaborators. 3. Thrive in community, engaging in collaboration, mentorship, and network-building. 4. Honor cultural lineage and accountability through ethical, transparent practice. 5. Use intersectional and transformative approaches to challenge inequity and imagine new futures.
URE is creating a national network of live–work spaces and collaborative programs for Black, Trans, and Gender Non-Conforming artists. We invite artists and partners committed to collective care, cooperative practice, and sustainable creative ecosystems to join us in building spaces where artists can thrive, lead, and transform culture.
Here's who we're looking for:
URE seeks the following partner organizations nationally and internationally. 1. Real Estate & Housing Partners: Nonprofit housing developers (e.g., Enterprise Community Partners, Local Initiatives Support Corporation – LISC) for affordable, sustainable housing models. Co-living / co-op developers who specialize in shared housing or cooperative ownership. Local housing authorities & city planning departments to secure zoning approvals, tax incentives, or land grants Community land trusts for long-term, collectively owned spaces. 2. Funding & Philanthropy Partners National arts funders (e.g., NEA, MAP Fund, Andy Warhol Foundation) for project support Foundations supporting LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and housing initiatives (e.g., Arcus Foundation, Horizons Foundation). Impact investors or social finance organizations interested in affordable artist housing or cooperative development. Local community foundations for site-specific funding. 3. Cultural & Arts Organizations BTGNC-led arts nonprofits to co-curate programming and fellowships. Artist incubators or cultural centers to offer long-term mentorship, residencies, or additional professional development opportunities. Aligned partner networks that connect communities across regions. Universities and art schools for research and technical support. 4. Legal & Organizational Support: Nonprofit legal advisors for cooperative governance, contracts, and liability. Cooperative development specialists to help structure shared ownership and management. Labor and employment legal partners to ensure fair compensation and workplace protections. 5. Community & Social Services Mental health and wellness providers with experience in BTGNC care. Peer-led support networks for healing, mentorship, and community care.