OHIO — Gov. Mike DeWine announced Friday the state will award more than $20 million in grants to 104 arts-based organizations in 33 counties.
It’s part of the second round of the Ohio Arts Economic Relief program. In May, the first round awarded $23.2 million in grants to 139 organizations in 35 counties.
“Ohio artists and arts organizations make our state an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family,” said DeWine in a press release. “Ohio is the heart of it all — and by supporting the arts, we continue to ensure artistic excellence.”
DeWine said the grants will help pay for employee compensation except bonuses, employee recruitment, rehiring and training expenses. It’ll also help with rent and operating costs.
“Through these grants, we’re promoting creativity and quality of life,” said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. “These resources help people take pride in their local communities and create places where people want to live, work and play.
The Ohio Arts Economic Relief program is funded as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. It was created in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly through a bill sponsored by Sen. George Lang, R-West Chester.
Awards are calculated based on each organization’s loss in revenue from 2019 to 2020 and 2021 and their 2022 operating budget, according to DeWine. To learn more, visit the Ohio Department of Development’s website.
