The Syracuse Prize celebrates and supports individuals who have made a significant contribution to the enrichment and vibrancy of the City of Syracuse, through their commitment to advancing, uplifting, and sustaining creative expression, artistic access, and cultural equity in the City. One winner and four finalists will be named in this inaugural cycle.

This Prize is made possible through a generous donor-advised fund managed by the Central New York Community Foundation. The award process and associated ceremony are administered and produced by CNY Arts. The Prize and ceremony are not part of CNY Arts’ publicly-funded regrant programs.

Application Deadline: Sunday, January 25, 2026 at 11:59 PM

Finalists Announced: Friday, March 6, 2026

Award Ceremony: Spring 2026

***Applications must be self-submitted by the nominee. Anyone wishing to recommend a fellow community member for consideration should complete this short form. ***

For full guidelines, visit the CNY Arts website, cnyarts.org.