MONTEREY COUNTY — Arts Council for Monterey County (Arts4MC) has announced the launch of a revamped grant initiative for its Community Arts Grants.
This new program combines the previous Arts and Cultural Impact Grant and Community Arts Grants into one comprehensive offering. The initiative aims to “promote equity and provide support for under-resourced arts organizations,” according to Arts4MC.
Organizations can receive up to $7,500 available during two funding cycles each year, with the first cycle opening on Oct. 1 and continuing through Nov. 12.
This strategic decision, approved by the Arts4MC Board of Directors, intends to model diversity and inclusion across the arts sector while ensuring equitable access to funding for local arts organizations. By focusing resources on under-resourced organizations, Arts4MC is addressing funding disparities that have historically favored larger, established institutions.
“By shifting our focus to under-resourced arts organizations, we can promote equity and strengthen the cultural fabric of our communities,” said Jacquie Atchison, executive director of Arts4MC. “This initiative supports diverse artistic expressions and helps these organizations thrive and innovate.”
The Community Arts Grant will utilize the Healthy Places Index as a review criterion, prioritizing funding for historically neglected communities. While this focus aims to rectify funding inequities, larger organizations dedicated to impactful equity work in underserved areas will still be eligible for support.
Funding for the Community Arts Grant is made possible by the County of Monterey, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, and the Todd Lueders Fund of the Community Foundation of Monterey County.
“The restructuring of our grant programs reflects our commitment to equitable funding and community empowerment,” stated Laurie Bend, chair of Arts4MC’s Board of Directors. “We believe fostering a diverse arts ecosystem will lead to lasting, transformative change.”
Organizations interested in applying for the Community Arts Grant can find more information, including application guidelines on the Arts4MC website at arts4mc.org/grants.
