Who We Are

Building the Creative Infrastructure.

We believe every artist deserves the opportunity to create, grow, connect, and thrive within a community that values their voice, their story, and their potential.

DearCo Community
DearCo Event
DearCo Stage

Our Mission

DearCo builds creative development and artist support systems that empower emerging artists to access opportunity, build community, strengthen their craft, and pursue sustainable creative futures.

Our Vision

We envision a future where emerging artists have access to inclusive, supportive, and sustainable creative ecosystems that foster artistic growth, belonging, opportunity, and long-term success.

Guiding Principles

  • Creative Dignity: Every artist deserves to be seen first through their humanity.
  • Collective Growth: Creative journeys are strengthened through mentorship and shared learning.
  • Belonging Before Success: Every artist deserves a community where they feel seen and supported.
  • Radical Accessibility: Creative opportunity should be accessible for all artists regardless of background.
Artists collaborating
Where it started

Our Story

DearCo was born out of a simple observation in the New York creative scene: brilliance is everywhere, but opportunity is not. We saw too many talented artists burning out, lacking the basic infrastructure to sustain their craft.

We started by hosting small, intimate living room showcases. As the community grew, so did the need for a formal support system. Today, DearCo Foundation acts as the structural foundation for artists—providing not just a stage, but the mentorship, wellness resources, and financial backing needed to thrive.

Leadership & Governance

Guided by expertise in Arts, Philanthropy, Finance, and Community Leadership.

Executive Leadership

Executive Leadership

Leading the visionary strategy, operations, and public representation of the foundation.

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Governing to build trust, accountability, sustainability, and long-term cultural impact.

Advisory Council

Advisory Council

Providing industry insight and strategic guidance to bridge governance and artist experience.

Commitment to Transparency

We believe that arts organizations must operate with radical financial transparency. Every dollar given to DearCo Foundation is an investment in cultural infrastructure, and we ensure the vast majority goes directly to artists.

  • Direct Artist Grants & Programs 75%
  • Community Spaces & Wellness 15%
  • Operations & Administration 10%

Annual Report

Review our complete financial breakdown, community impact metrics, and stories of change from the past year.