New Jersey State Council on the Arts Approves Over $15.7 Million in Grants

On Jul 21, 2015

The New Jersey State Council on the Arts has awarded more than $15.7 million in grant funding for over 700 arts organizations, projects and artists throughout the state. The awards were announced at the Arts Council’s 49th Annual Meeting held at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Trenton.

“The arts industry is critical to New Jersey’s economic growth and creative vitality,” said Acting Governor Kim Guadagno, who also serves as Secretary of State. “The grants awarded through the State Arts Council support cultural assets in every region that help shape New Jersey communities as great places to live, visit, do business and raise a family.”

Arts Council Chair Elizabeth Mattson stated, “Today’s actions reflect the Council’s commitment to excellence, and to ensuring that the public funds entrusted to us are invested wisely in the people and organizations that make this state great.”

The Council receives funding from the State of New Jersey through the Hotel/Motel Occupancy Fee legislation passed in 2003, which established a dedicated revenue source to support arts, history and tourism. Additionally the Arts Council receives annual competitive grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Funding decisions are made through a transparent, merit-based and rigorous grants process that assures access and equity. Independent peer panels evaluate grant applications to eliminate the possibility for conflict of interest.

“New Jersey artists and arts organizations are forever breaking molds, changing lives, and leading the way nationally,” said Council Executive Director Nick Paleologos.

According to Arts Council records, state arts funding employs an estimated 17,000 workers, supports 37,000 cultural events, and attracts 5 million visitors who spend another $125 million. The bottom line: every nickel of state spending on the arts yields a dollar of local economic impact in towns and cities across the state.

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