Arts Access—Strengthening the Arts Infrastructure of Ohio

The Arts Access program is focused on supporting programs that improve access to arts experiences for all Ohioans. The Ohio Arts Council believes everyone in Ohio should have access to memorable arts experiences—great music, beautiful exhibitions, captivating storytelling, breathtaking dance and much more. The people of Ohio should have the opportunity to participate in the powerful experiences the arts make possible.

There are many organizations in Ohio that offer these experiences to communities—and the OAC frequently receives calls from communities interested in starting new organizations. The Arts Access program was designed, partly, for these new organizations—either brand new, or only new to the OAC. The Arts Access program allows applicants to request a modest amount of funding without having to compete with the most experienced organizations in the state.

There also are small organizations throughout Ohio that use the arts to make a difference in their communities, but don't necessarily have a large budget. The Arts Access program is also designed to cater to smaller organizations—those with budgets under $25,000 a year. The Arts Access program allows organizations to return to the OAC on a regular basis to compete for funding with organizations of similar size.

The Ohio Arts Council is interested in increasing access to the arts—whether through new organizations bringing arts experiences to communities for the first time or small organizations keeping arts programs alive year after year. You know how valuable the arts are in your community, and we know how valuable you are to the arts in Ohio.

Before applying to this program you must read Guidelines, specifically the legal and program requirements. Unless otherwise stated, all future deadlines will use the new Online Grant Application system (OLGA). No paper applications will be accepted for this program.

The Ohio Arts Council is looking for people to serve on advisory panels to review grant applications. To nominate a panelist complete a Nomination for Panel Membership form or contact Karine Aswad at karine.aswad@oac.state.oh.us or 614/466-2613.

Arts Access Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General grants process FAQ

Resources

Organizational Capacity and Project Planning Worksheets
A useful resource for small-mid size organizations for organizational and project planning.

OAC Convening Information
Documentation of the March 2004 meetings hosted by the OAC including useful concepts and methods to illustrate public value and bolster public support of the arts.

OAC Databases
Searchable databases allow you to check past OAC funding history, locate festivals, artists, creative writers and more and where you will find other useful OAC publications and rosters

Secretary of State, State of Ohio
A source of information for how to apply for not for profit status in the state of Ohio. Obtain forms and download a legal guide for non-profit organizations.

About.Com
Overview of articles related to starting a not for profit organization. Includes definitions of not for profits, a glossary and helpful tips.

ArtsinOhio.com
A terrific FREE way to promote your organization's events. Register at www.OhioEventFinder.com and begin entering your events today!