The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Georgia Council for the Arts today announced the recipients of its new Vibrant Communities grant. Ninety-three entities received more than $300,055.00 in funding.

Earlier this year, the Georgia Legislature allocated funds to Georgia Council for the Arts to increase the reach of arts grants across the state. This grant was available to organizations in counties who did not receive an FY16 Project or Partner Grant. GCA received 109 applications requesting $353,766 from 65 counties across the state. Applicants included libraries, schools, arts centers, cities, historical societies, community theatres, Boys & Girls Clubs, etc.

“We believe that all communities in Georgia have great art, inspired artists and visions for the way in which local art can bolster community and economic development” said GCA executive director Karen Paty. “GCA is grateful to all of those in state leadership that enabled us to increase the breadth and reach of our funding to support the incredible work happening is communities throughout the state.”

Georgia Council for the Arts uses Peer Review Panels to adjudicate applications following National Endowment for the Arts precedent. Peer Review Panels include GCA Council members; 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.