Asianati and Greater Cincinnati Chinese Cultural Exchange Association Complete Merger

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Asianati and the Greater Cincinnati Chinese Cultural Exchange Association (GCCCEA) are excited to announce the successful completion of their merger. Effective January 2026, the two organizations are operating as one unified nonprofit under the name Asianati, marking a significant milestone for the Greater Cincinnati Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. This merger brings together two mission-aligned organizations that connect hundreds of thousands Greater Cincinnatians with Asian cultures through Asian Food Fest, Moon Festival, and other programs. By joining forces, Asianati and GCCCEA are creating a stronger organization—one positioned to expand programming, deepen community impact, and steward resources more effectively for the region’s growing and diverse AAPI population.

A Shared Vision for a Stronger Future

Both organizations have long been dedicated to celebrating Asian heritage, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and strengthening community connections. Together, they share a common belief: unity creates greater opportunity. “This merger allows us to build on what each organization does best,” said Felicity Tao, former board chair of GCCCEA. “Asianati and GCCCEA have strong synergy and complementary strategies, talent, programming, and partner ecosystems. Coming together is a no-brainer as we both want to grow into a more impactful and sustainable organization that helps make this region a true home for diverse communities.”

What This Means for the Community

The unified organization will offer:

• Expanded and enhanced programs and services
• Greater reach and deeper impact across the AAPI community and the tri-state region
• Improved efficiency and stronger stewardship of philanthropic and community resources
• A more unified and influential voice for AAPI communities in Greater Cincinnati

Community members, partners, and supporters can expect continuity and growth grounded in the same values, relationships, and community-centered approach that have guided both organizations for years.

What’s New: A Bold Vision Forward

Asianati remains deeply committed to its mission and values. Core programs and services will continue, along with strong relationships with community members, donors, partners, and volunteers. The organization’s focus on cultural celebration and connection through engagement, education, and experiences remains at the heart of its work.

Looking ahead, Asianati has set an ambitious vision for the future: By 2035, Asianati will be the central hub for the Greater Cincinnati AAPI community—an intergenerational ecosystem anchored by a permanent cultural center, landmark festivals, empowered youth leaders, policy advocacy, and a sustainable financial model. The organization seeks to unite people across cultures through belonging, creativity, and collaboration.

To help realize this vision, Asianati recently welcomed Paraag Maddiwar as its new executive director. Maddiwar brings decades of private-sector business experience and nonprofit leadership, positioning the organization for its next chapter of growth and impact.

“We are excited to join forces with GCCCEA to build a much stronger AAPI community organization,” said Qorinah Wardhani, board chair of Asianati. “Together, we can make significant contributions to a more vibrant and inclusive region for everyone in Greater Cincinnati.”

For more information about Asianati and upcoming programs, visit www.asianati.com or follow Asianati on social media.