Organizers of small arts and cultural festivals in Onondaga County now have a new source of funding to help bring their events to life.
County Executive Ryan McMahon announced Monday that applications are officially open for the Small Festival Fund Program, a $100,000 initiative designed to support community-based festivals across the region. The program, administered by CNY Arts, aims to enhance local quality of life and promote the economic and cultural value of the arts.
“Quality of life is a large part of what makes our community so special,” McMahon said in the announcement. “The arts and entertainment are also a critical part of our local economy.” He added that the goal is to sustain and grow the unique festivals that residents enjoy year after year.
Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for grants of up to $7,500. The funding can cover artist fees, marketing and publicity, or project-related costs like space or equipment rentals. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the April 29 deadline. Awards will be determined by a peer review panel made up of artists, arts administrators, and community leaders.
Details and application materials are available at www.cnyarts.org.