Kansas Arts Commission awards $1 million for arts and culture projects across the state

TOPEKA (KSNT) – More than 100 arts and culture projects across Kansas are receiving some grant cash this year to create new economic development opportunities.

The Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) announced $1 million for 108 grant recipients for arts and culture projects across the state on July 15. Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said that grant recipients will share in the million dollar investment into arts-related economic development and community vitality initiatives. 

“These grants will support an array of organizations and initiatives that will enrich the appeal of these communities, encourage innovation and drive economic growth,” Toland said. “Arts shape the unique character of our Kansas communities and through these awards, community leaders and artists can continue investing locally while opening doors to new opportunities and experiences for residents and visitors alike.”

Patrick Lowry with the Kansas Department of Commerce said the arts and culture industry in Kansas supported over 50,000 jobs in 2023 and contributed almost $5.5 billion to the state economy. This year, the money will be invested in programs like non-profit organizations, local governments as well as local colleges and universities.

The grants come from appropriations by the Kansas Legislature and federal support from the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA). Recipients received funding in one of four categories:

• Arts Everywhere Program – 21 awards and $235,873.
• General Operating Support – 70 awards and $635,653.
• Public Art & Murals Grants – 12 awards and $91,474.
• Visiting Artists Program – five awards and $37,000.

Some recipients include: Emporia State University, Oz Museum/Columbian Theatre Foundation, Topeka Symphony Society, North Topeka Arts District, Inc., Kansas Book Festival Foundation, Manhattan Arts Center, Inc., Topeka Civic Theatre and Academy, Great Plains Theatre, Sunflower Music Festival, Kansas State University, Kansas Ballet Company, Kansas Rural Communities Foundation and the Kansas University Endowment Association

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