COLUMBUS—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik announced today that more than $23 million in support will be provided to arts organizations in Ohio.
The funding is part of the first round of the Ohio Arts Economic Relief Grant Program, and it will be awarded to a total of 139 organizations across 35 counties in the state.
Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of Ohio’s arts communities in making the state a desirable place to live and visit. He stated, “These grants will help ensure that communities continue to have access to the programming and learning experiences Ohioans love.”
Lt. Governor Husted highlighted the significance of supporting art organizations and museums in promoting creativity, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth throughout the state. He said, “Providing support to Ohio art organizations and museums underscores our commitment to promoting creativity in our state, which ultimately spurs innovation and encourages economic growth, improving the quality of life across all communities.”
Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, emphasized the essential role of Ohio’s vibrant arts scene in shaping the identity of the state. She stated, “Our vibrant arts scene is an essential part of who we are. By supporting the work of our local arts organizations, we’re helping empower our creatives to succeed and showcasing Ohio as the heart of creativity.”
The grant program was established in collaboration with the Ohio General Assembly as part of a bill sponsored by Sen. George Lang (R-West Chester), which was later integrated into House Bill 45. The program has a total funding of $50 million, with a second round of funding expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The grants can be utilized for various purposes, including employee compensation (excluding bonuses), employee recruitment, rehiring, and training expenses, rent or mortgage payments, and operating costs.
Over 400 organizations applied for the grants by the March 31 deadline. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet specific criteria related to performing arts organizations or cultural arts museums that exhibit or preserve artistic works.
The program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, and grant awards were determined based on organizations’ revenue losses from 2019 to 2020 and 2021, as well as their 2022 operating budgets. For more details about the program, interested parties can visit Development.Ohio.Gov/ArtsGrant.
Click HERE for the complete list of this round of grants.