The Foundation for Arts Initiatives is a private foundation that has been making grants in the arts since 1999, independent of any governments, agencies, NGOs, or their related agendas. It has its own endowment and does not rely on donors or public sources. FfAI’s independence is central to its work and identity.

FfAI is run by a Board of museum directors, curators and heads of arts organizations around the world that is actively engaged in all funding and policy decisions and in considering all proposals.

Formerly known as the American Center Foundation, FfAI is the successor to the American Center in Paris, a cultural center that championed avant-garde work in the arts. Today, FfAI’s grant programs support curators, arts institutions, and special projects in the visual arts.