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What is LINC?

Launched as a ten-year initiative in 2003, Leveraging Investments in Creativity (LINC) represents a philanthropic experiment in using information, money, strategy, and partnerships to effect change in the support system for artists in the United States. LINC’s mission was to improve the ability of artists to create work, build social capital, and contribute to democratic values. Between 2003 and 2013, LINC invested in the work of more than 100 partner organizations and disbursed over $18 million to support innovative programs, groundbreaking research, catalyctic partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and other work in pursuit of that mission. 

  • Cornerstones

    The story of how LINC was founded, its primary programs, and its overall evolution. This section illuminates LINC’s values in practice over the course of its ten-year lifespan.

  • Research

    A complete index of LINC’s published research, highlighting critical findings that can contribute to innovative practices going forward. 

  • Case Studies

    Select examples from LINC’s grantee portfolio, which highlight shifts in thinking and practice to which LINC contributed.

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  • case studies

    Rebuild Foundation

  • cornerstones

    From the Funder

  • case studies

    Center for Cultural Innovation

  • PA'I Foundation

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    PA'I Foundation

  • researchCCPSSP

    From Rust Belt to Artist Belt: Challenges and Opportunities in Rust Belt Cities

    Community Partnership for Arts and Culture

  • Center for Cultural Innovation

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    Center for Cultural Innovation

  • researchAS

    Artist Space Development: Financing

    LINC, Urban Institute: Chris Walker

  • researchASPS

    Artist Space Development: Making the Case

    Urban Institute: Maria Rosario Jackson w/ Florence Kabwasa-Green

  • Chicago Artists Resource

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    Chicago Artists Resource

  • cornerstones

    From Research to Practice: LINC

  • researchCCPSSP

    Creative Communities: Artist Data User Guide

    Ann Markusen w/ Greg Schrock

  • case studies

    Los Cenzontles Mexican Arts Center