ECGRA Celebrates Over $600,000 in Growth for Erie's Lead Assets
The Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) announced today $613,061 in growth of grant distributions for Erie's Lead Assets. The Lead Assets are nine of Erie County's most impactful nonprofit institutions - cultural, historical, and recreational organziations that anchor tourism, education, and quality of place.
The announcement was made during a press event at the Mercyhurst Institute of Art and Culture (MIAC), a Lead Asset.
"The Lead Assets represent positive impact to Erie County's identity and quality of place and we support their efforts in perpetuity," said ECGRA Executive Director Perry Wood. "A strong quality of place is what attracts visitors, retains residents, and makes Erie a place people are proud to call home."
"With the support of ECGRA and so many others, the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture can strengthen the vibrancy of the whole Erie region by presenting world-class experiences and encouraging new and exciting ideas. ECGRA helps us make these programs accessible to the broadest possible audience," said Brett D. Johnson, Artistic Director of MIAC.
The Erie Philharmonic is another Lead Asset institution supported by ECGRA grants.
"Through its Lead Asset program, the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority has made a lasting commitment to organizations that shape the cultural fabric of our region, enabling the Erie Philharmonic and our cross-discipline partners to serve as both cultural anchors and economic drivers. From subscription and educational performances on the Warner Theatre stage to concerts, classes, and community events in parks and schools across Erie County, this sustaining investment is our bedrock, providing the stability to grow, innovate, and serve our community year after year," said Erie Philharmonic Executive Director Bobby Pape.
Since 2011, ECGRA has committed more than $19 million in grants and endowment support to the Lead Assets. These cornerstone nonprofits drive tourism, preserve Erie's identity, enrich families, and support Erie's creative economy. Lead Assets are a unique grant category that represents a long-term investment in organizations that have helped shape Erie's cultural landscape. The funding is held in trust at the Erie Community Foundation. Because these funds are held in trust, the Lead Asset program provides stable, recurring support rather than one-time grants.
To see a list of funds provided to the Lead Assets, click here.
