6 Columbus arts and culture programs to receive grant funding

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The Georgia Council for the Arts, a specialized team within the Georgia Dept. of Economic Development, announced on Monday more than $1.3 million in grant funding that will be distributed across 49 Georgia counties, including six in Columbus.

Over 100 non-profit arts organizations will receive funding from the GCA’s general operating support grant. The grant will help fund 45 individual art projects such as art exhibits, theater productions, children’s workshops, artist residencies, or capacity-building projects. The Arts Education Program grant will be distributed to 28 organizations to support the arts in K-12 education.

“The arts are at the heart of Georgia’s communities, and our vibrant arts organizations are enhancing downtowns, creating jobs, and connecting people,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “These awards will also provide educational opportunities for students, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that are essential for the future workforce in any industry.”

The following organizations will receive general operating support grants for FY2026:

• RiverCenter, Inc.
• Springer Opera House
• The Columbus Museum
• Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus

The following organizations will receive project grants for FY2026:

• Columbus Botanical Garden
• The Columbus Ballet, Inc.

Funds awarded by the GCA include appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. The council says it used peer review panels to judge and review grant applications.