EarRelevant Staff | 11 JUL 2024
MARIETTA, Georgia— The Georgia Symphony Orchestra (GSO) has been awarded a $14,400 Bridge Grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) for fiscal year 2025. The grant, which provides operating support to nonprofit arts organizations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, is part of a larger initiative that will distribute more than $2.6 million to 204 entities across 44 counties in Georgia.
“These grant dollars will allow arts organizations in Georgia to focus on their primary mission to bring art and cultural events to their communities by relieving the burden of certain operating expenses,” said GCA Executive Director Tina Lilly. “Georgia Council for the Arts is excited to help our arts organizations continue to foster economic and cultural vitality in their communities.”
The Bridge Grant program received applications from diverse arts organizations, including performing arts centers, museums, galleries, amphitheaters, and music festivals. The funds are designated for eligible operating expenses such as rent, utilities, programming, and marketing.
“We are so grateful to have the support of the GCA as we begin our 74th season serving Marietta, Cobb County, and the greater metro Atlanta area,” said GSO Executive Director Suzanne Tucker. “These funds will allow us to bring music into schools, senior centers, and veterans’ homes, and to continue our special concerts for those on the autism spectrum or with other special needs. It means we can have a positive impact on our community beyond the concert stage.”
Funding for the Bridge Grants is provided through appropriations from the National Endowment for the Arts and the American Rescue Plan (ARP). The GCA uses Peer Review Panels, consisting of GCA Council members and experienced arts professionals, to judge and review applications based on standard practices set by the National Endowment for the Arts.
The Bridge Grant program offers general operating support ranging from $12,000 to $50,000, depending on the applicant organization’s budget size. These grants require a 100% match of the requested amount and cover the funding period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. While the application deadline for FY25 has passed, organizations can apply for FY26 grants in early February 2025. ■
EXTERNAL LINKS:
- Georgia Symphony Orchestra: georgiasymphony.org
- Georgia Council for the Arts: gaarts.org
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