originally published: 12/15/2025

Davon Cochran in Passage Theatre's 2024 production of Ghetto Gods in Divineland. Photo by Jeff Stewart.

(TRENTON, NJ) -- The Passage Theatre Company is proud to announce it is one of 39 recipients of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority [NJEDA] A.R.T. Phase II. The A.R.T. Phase II program aims to catalyze community placemaking efforts by leveraging New Jersey's arts and cultural sector as a creative force for change, and by supporting non-profit organizations focused on public art installations and arts-based initiatives.

Passage Theatre looks forward to expanding and strengthening the artistic and economic opportunities for Trentonians and visitors to the Capital City and beyond.

"The A.R.T. program delivers essential grant funding to local arts and cultural organizations for initiatives that boost foot traffic, support small business growth, and strengthen the economic resiliency of municipalities most impacted by the pandemic," said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. "Under Governor Murphy's leadership, New Jersey is continuing to make significant investments in our downtowns and main streets. These A.R.T. awards will help communities across the state activate public spaces, host events, and advance arts-based initiatives that promote long-term growth and vibrancy."

Funded through the American Rescue Plan (ARP), A.R.T. Phase II replicates the first phase of the program, which focused on Atlantic City and Newark, by expanding eligibility to municipalities throughout the state.

“Today marks a major milestone in the NJEDA’s mission to bolster the arts and culture sector, which boasts a rich legacy in New Jersey and serves as an economic powerhouse for local communities across the state,” said NJEDA Chief Community Development Officer Tai Cooper.

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“The funding announced today continues Governor Murphy’s efforts to leverage the sector as a creative force for change, supporting a range of non-profit organizations that are focused on revitalizing their communities through the wholistic impact of the arts. I appreciate the work of Barbara Bickart, NJEDA Senior Advisor for Arts & Culture, for spearheading this effort and her advocacy for this vital sector, ensuring it has the tools needed to drive their organizations forward and cultivate economic prosperity, while improving the quality of life for all New Jerseyans,” added Cooper.

“The State Arts Council is proud to help connect the NJEDA with New Jersey’s nonprofit arts community for these exciting funding opportunities,” said Allison Tratner, Executive Director of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. “Not only do arts nonprofits contribute to the state’s overall economy and employ tens of thousands of people, they also serve as vital anchors in their communities. These significant A.R.T. grants come at a crucial time for the sector, supporting stability – and that means these organizations are better positioned to successfully deliver both economic and social benefits to individuals and families across New Jersey.”