The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Georgia Council for the Arts announced the recipients of the Vibrant Communities grant. Eighty-four entities in 64 counties received $300,000 in funding.

“The Vibrant Communities grant supports incredible art programs that are happening in communities across Georgia,” said GCA executive director Karen Paty. “This grant program is one of many ways that GCA works to support the meaningful work of artists and arts organizations throughout our state because a thriving arts community creates vitality, improves education and contributes in significant ways to local economic and community development.”

GCA received 123 applications requesting more than $467,000. Applicants included libraries, schools, arts centers, cities, historical societies, community theatres, Boys & Girls Clubs, etc. The Vibrant Communities Grant is available to organizations in counties that did not receive a FY18 Project, Partner or Arts Education grant.

Georgia Council for the Arts uses Peer Review Panels to adjudicate applications following National Endowment for the Arts precedent. Peer Review Panels include fellow professionals who are experienced in the arts discipline or type of grant being reviewed; or are Georgia citizens with a record of arts activities, experience, and knowledge.