CMAAEEC Receives Historic $1 Million Operational Grant from NYS Assembly 

The Cultural Museum of African Art, Inc. – The Eric Edwards Collection (CMAAEEC) is proud to announce the receipt of a $1,000,000 operational grant in 2025 from the New York State Assembly, made possible through the visionary leadership of Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman. 

This critical investment represents a milestone moment for CMAAEEC, supporting the continued preservation and expansion of one of the most significant cultural institutions in New York State and beyond. 

CMAAEEC is home to over 3,000 unique African artifacts, representing all 54 countries of the African continent and spanning more than 4,000 years of human history. The Eric Edwards Collection is globally recognized as the most important and comprehensive collection of African artifacts in the world, including irreplaceable pieces directly sourced from African royal families. 

In addition to the extraordinary artifact collection, CMAAEEC is committed to cultural education and community engagement. Since 2017, the Museum has offered an Educational Curriculum that expands understanding of the history, culture, and contributions of the peoples of the African Diaspora. Through its ongoing partnership with the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, CMAAEEC’s educational programming has reached thousands of students and community members across New York City. 

With the support of this operational grant, CMAAEEC aims to further expand its educational impact, establishing stronger ties with the New York City Department of Education and additional school districts to introduce a broader audience to the rich, vibrant history of Africa and its Diaspora.