Universal Hip-Hop Museum Secures $3.75 Million Grant from New York State

The grant was announced by Governor Cuomo on Thursday.

The Universal Hip-Hop Museum is inching towards its $80 million funding goal.

According to CNN, the Bronx development project has secured an additional $3.75 million in a grant from the state of New York. The boost follows rounds of support from corporate partners (Microsoft and MIT,) as well as stamps from LL Cool J, Ice T, and Nas, all of which serve as ambassadors for the museum.

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The grant was unveiled Thursday morning by Governor Andrew Cuomo as part of a new statewide economic and community development initiative. Officially announced in 2017, UHHM had undergone several relocations and delays before settling on Bronx Point as its home. The 50,000 square-foot facility will feature workshops and interactive exhibits, utilizing VR and experiential installations to celebrate and preserve the pillars of hip-hop.

Barring any further setbacks, The Universal Hip-Hop Museum is eyeing a 2023 opening to commemorate the 50th-anniversary of that pivotal summer at 1520 Sedgwick in Morris Heights. For more on the museum, you can head over to their site.

Stay tuned for updates in the months ahead.