Share 
The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) has approved nearly $1.8 million for Atlantic City community programs and public events during the first half of 2026.
Recipients included Atlantic Cape Community College, local nonprofits, and organizers behind several of the city’s free summer events.
The grants add to the CRDA’s broader investment in Atlantic City. The state agency oversees the city’s Tourism District and supports redevelopment and community projects throughout Atlantic City.
All 14 grants are reimbursable, according to the CRDA’s announcement. Recipients must first incur eligible expenses and submit documentation before the authority releases the money.
Workforce, food programs receive over $860,000
Atlantic Cape Community College received the largest individual award, with $300,000 going toward Phase 5 of Atlantic City Works. The workforce training initiative has trained about 850 residents and generated an estimated $20 million in economic impact since launching.
NAN Tech World Atlantic City received $100,000 to train people ages 14 to 18 in areas such as coding, cybersecurity, and culinary arts. Another $69,825 will support workforce readiness, career exploration, and substance abuse prevention programs operated by the Empowerment Tools Coalition.
MudGirls Studios received $100,000 to continue its ceramics-based employment program for women facing barriers to work. The organization will also expand art programs for children and older residents.
Food and wellness programs accounted for another $293,350. Communities Revolutionizing Open Public Spaces received $231,150 to continue operating community gardens, farmers markets that accept SNAP, a farmer training program, and Atlantic City’s first food hub.
Angels in Motion received $62,200 to expand transportation support and wellness services for people experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders.
Grants support education, Atlantic City art
Literacy New Jersey Atlantic Cape received $30,000 for free tutoring in basic literacy, English as a second language, GED preparation, and job readiness skills. The organization served 45 students through more than 1,300 hours of individual instruction last year.
The Atlantic City Arts Foundation will use a $134,075 grant to install four murals and hold the 48 Blocks Festival. Its public art program has already created more than 105 murals throughout the city.
Creative Multi Media received $13,375 for Keeping the Music Alive, a series focused on Atlantic City’s musical history that includes live events and a youth talent search.
Free concerts headline public event funding
The CRDA allocated $517,750 to three free music programs. That includes $225,000 for Tony Mart Presents to stage 16 Mardi Gras AC concerts at Kennedy Plaza.
The National Rhythm and Blues Music Society received $142,750 for an Old School Soul and R&B concert at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. No Vacancy Entertainment received $150,000 for the It’s Pure AC Concert Series, which will celebrate former Atlantic City venues such as Club Harlem and The 500 Club.
The remaining event grants include $75,000 for the Atlantic City Marathon Race Series and $30,000 for the city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Organizers estimate the marathon attracts more than 7,000 runners annually and produces over $6 million in economic impact, while last year’s St. Patty’s parade drew an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 spectators.
“Every grant we award has to earn its place,” CRDA Deputy Executive Director Maisha Moore said, adding that the agency considers each organization’s track record, community impact, and financial accountability.
Atlantic City casinos contribute 1.25% of their gross gaming revenue to the CRDA.
