Special to Iredell Free News

RALEIGH — The N.C. Arts Council on Tuesday announced $16 million in grants for fiscal year 2023-2024. This includes an increase of $2.5 million in annual funding for the statewide Grassroots Arts Program, a cornerstone program which distributes funds to all 100 counties through an extensive network of local arts councils and other partners.

The Iredell Arts Council was the sole grant recipient in Iredell County. The nonprofit will receive $92,913 to fund its grassroots arts program, arts program and administrative support.

“Our state’s investments in arts and culture are critical for our communities and our economy,” said Gov. Roy Cooper. “These grants will help make communities across North Carolina more attractive while enabling arts organizations to serve more people, teach more children, and be better prepared for the future.”

Some 581 nonprofit arts organizations, schools, and municipalities will receive grants ranging from $1,000 to $500,000.

“This historic level of funding for the arts and culture sector in North Carolina not only supports the incredible work being done by artists, arts organizations, local governments, and educators, it enriches people’s lives and builds communities in all 100 counties,” said Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Reid Wilson.

This year’s funding includes the final allocation of federal COVID-19 relief funding from the American Rescue Plan Act.

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For a complete list of FY 2023-24 grant recipients, visit HERE.

About the North Carolina Arts Council

The North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, builds on our state’s long-standing love of the arts, leading the way to a more vibrant future. The N.C. Arts Council is an economic catalyst, fueling a thriving nonprofit creative sector that generates $2.23 billion in annual direct economic activity. We sustain diverse arts expression and traditions while investing in innovative approaches to art-making. The N.C. Arts Council has proven to be a champion for youth by cultivating tomorrow’s creative citizens through arts education. Visit NCArts.org.