Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an additional $600,000 in state funding to support wild project, a nonprofit arts organization and performance venue in Manhattan’s East Village. This brings the total state contribution to $1.2 million, allowing wild project to purchase the building at 195 East 3rd Street, which has housed its 89-seat theater since 2007.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York’s creative spirit depends on the spaces where artists gather, experiment, and share their work. I’m proud that the State could help wild project secure its permanent home in the East Village — a place that has nurtured countless artists and supported a vibrant, diverse cultural community. When we invest in organizations like wild project, we strengthen our creative economy and preserve the cultural spaces that make New York truly unique.”
The funding includes $1.1 million administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and a $100,000 capital grant from Empire State Development. The latter was recommended by the New York City Regional Economic Development Council (NYCREDC).
Robert J. Rodriguez, President and CEO of DASNY said, “DASNY is proud to administer this State investment that preserves one of New York City’s most dynamic and inclusive cultural spaces. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s support, wild project now has the long-term stability it needs to continue uplifting independent artists, fostering community engagement, and contributing to the creative fabric of the East Village.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development added: “Securing a permanent home for wild project ensures that one of New York’s most innovative and inclusive arts organizations can continue to uplift emerging voices and strengthen the East Village’s creative ecosystem. This investment reflects New York’s commitment to preserving affordable cultural spaces that drive neighborhood vibrancy, support local talent, and contribute to the city’s broader economic vitality.”
Félix V. Matos Rodríguez and William D. Rahm, co-chairs of NYCREDC commented: “Creative spaces like wild project do more than support artists — they fuel neighborhood vitality, attract visitors, and contribute to a strong, inclusive local economy. The NYCREDC is proud to support this project, which will keep the East Village a welcoming home for independent arts and preserve the kind of community assets that make New York City thrive.”
Ana Mari de Quesada and Tom Escovar from wild project said: “After a long and often difficult journey, we are overjoyed to have secured wild project’s future with the purchase of our cherished home on East 3rd Street. This milestone reflects years of determination and the collective strength of our artists, supporters, and community. We’re proud to preserve this creative space for future generations of New York’s cultural innovators.”
Former Representative Carolyn Maloney remarked: “I am deeply proud to have granted $1 million in federal funding to enable the purchase of a permanent home for the wild project community building at 195 East 3rd Street. This investment will allow artists and organizations to continue their important work, creating opportunities for future generations and further enriching our artistic community.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated: “Arts and culture are the lifeblood and economic engine of New York City. Theater spaces like wild project let creativity thrive, and I am thrilled that they will soon be able to have a new, permanent building on East 3rd Street. I applaud Governor Hochul for her commitment to the arts community, and I look forward to seeing all that wild project will accomplish in their new home.”
Representative Dan Goldman said: “Wild Project has been a lifeline for independent, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and East Village artists for nearly two decades. I was proud to support their efforts to secure this permanent home… This investment preserves a cornerstone of the East Village’s identity…”
State Senator Brian Kavanagh added: “As one of the earliest supporters… I am thrilled that we are able to announce today a full package of financial support… For years,wild project has provided an inclusive space for artists… With this purchase,I’m confident that wild project’s spirit…will continue…”
Assemblymember Harvey Epstein said: “wild project has been a part of our community’s artistic center for a long time…”
Assemblymember Grace Lee commented: “wild project plays an essential role in nurturing…artists…”
Paul Leibowitz from Plot Real Estate Advisory noted his involvement advising on this purchase.
IndieSpace Executive Director Randi Berry said small venues like this face ongoing affordability challenges.
Anne del Castillo from NYC Department of Cultural Affairs highlighted how securing this venue protects space dedicated specifically for emerging voices including LGBTQIA+ creators.
Laura Sewell from East Village Community Coalition called wild project’s acquisition “long-awaited” noting its role as an anchor institution locally.
Wild Project supports independent theater as well as film,music,and spoken-word performances,supporting over 12 thousand artists since opening.More than half its audience identifies as LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC.The venue is eco-friendly with solar panels,a rooftop garden,and sustainable materials.It remains among few city performance venues led by women of color.
