At CultureWorks, we’re constantly seeking ways to support the vibrant cultural community in Philadelphia. As we celebrate the start of a new year, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Community Vanguards Program, an initiative designed to bring together individuals who see creativity and innovation as the foundation of their work—no matter their industry.

We recognize that there are people who want to bridge connections with Philadelphia’s cultural community, expand their social networks in an analog way, and invest in the creative ecosystem that makes our city thrive. These individuals may not traditionally identify as part of the "arts and culture sector," but they are visionaries who value creativity and innovation as cornerstones of what they do. Through this program, we aim to empower them to connect, collaborate, and contribute to Philadelphia’s cultural vibrancy.

Who is Eligible?

The Community Vanguards Program is open to anyone interested in bridging connections with the cultural community in Philadelphia. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and participation will be based on available capacity and the number of applications received. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries to apply and join this vibrant network of cultural changemakers.

Who Are Community Vanguards?

The Community Vanguards Program is tailored for professionals working full-time in sectors not typically defined as "arts and culture"—think business, tech, healthcare, education, or law—yet who share a passion for creativity and community-building. These individuals recognize the importance of the arts in fostering innovation, driving collaboration, and building stronger, more connected communities.

By joining this program, participants also have the unique opportunity to invest in the business of resource sharing in the nonprofit cultural sector that CultureWorks provides—most notably through our fiscal sponsorship of 91 active projects. Your membership helps sustain a vital support system for cultural organizations, ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Program Benefits

Becoming a Community Vanguard means gaining access to CultureWorks’ resources and community while enjoying a Flexible Membership at the price of a Communal Membership ($100/month) for six months. Here’s what you’ll gain:

Coworking Space

• Access to Suite 300, a vibrant coworking space designed for creatives and cultural leaders.

• Amenities include high-speed internet, meeting rooms, event spaces, and more.

Networking Opportunities

• Build meaningful connections with cultural leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs in Philadelphia.

• Attend our monthly Third Thursdays events, featuring panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to engage with the latest trends in arts and culture.

Professional Development

• Access workshops, roundtables, and other learning opportunities to fuel your creativity and innovation.

• Collaborate with individuals and organizations leading the charge in Philadelphia’s cultural and creative landscape.

Investing in Impact

• Your membership directly supports CultureWorks’ fiscal sponsorship program, which empowers 91 nonprofit projects in Philadelphia by providing administrative, financial, and strategic resources to sustain their work.

Exclusive Discounts and Perks

• Discounts on events, programs, and partnerships (like our CoCuSocial cooking classes!).

Why Community Vanguards?

The Community Vanguards Program is about more than just membership—it’s about creating an inclusive space where individuals from diverse industries can come together to innovate, collaborate, and inspire one another. This program invites participants to:

• Expand Their Social Network: Forge new connections with like-minded individuals and organizations.

• Engage in the Cultural Community: Invest in Philadelphia’s arts and culture scene through active participation.

• Champion Creativity: Bring fresh perspectives from their respective fields to inspire growth and collaboration within the cultural sector.

• Support Resource Sharing: Play a critical role in sustaining CultureWorks’ efforts to provide fiscal sponsorship and shared resources for 91 nonprofit projects.

How to Join

Interested in becoming a Community Vanguard? Apply now and take advantage of this special offer to experience the best of what CultureWorks has to offer. Membership slots are limited, so don’t wait to join this dynamic and innovative community. The final day to apply is February 28th.