nico w. okoro of The Building Fund was proud to serve as a strategic consultant and content lead on Buy New Haven: A Guide to Purchasing Local Art, an initiative of The Center for Inclusive Growth New Haven. This guide is designed to help organizations bring the creativity of New Haven artists into their spaces by offering practical, inclusive strategies for sourcing art locally, making the process approachable for businesses of any size. Inside, you’ll find real examples and proven practices from New Haven organizations that have successfully integrated local art into their offices, storefronts, and community spaces. Step‑by‑step guidance walks you through how to identify, connect with, and purchase from local artists, ensuring that your investment not only enhances your environment but also strengthens the city’s creative economy. By following this toolkit, businesses can transform procurement into a powerful act of support—celebrating local talent, reducing barriers for artists, and contributing to a more vibrant, equitable New Haven.

