On our most recent episode of Grant Talk, Libby Hikind hosts Brenda Swan, Director of Grants and Operations at the St. Johns County Cultural Council. The discussion highlights the various grant opportunities available through the Cultural Council, specifically those that promote tourism, arts, culture, and heritage in St. Johns County, Florida.
St. Johns Supports Arts and Tourism
St. Johns County Cultural Council serves as the local arts agency, designated by the county to support arts initiatives. The council also collaborates with the Tourist Development Council (TDC) to manage grants that promote tourism through arts, culture, and heritage. Given the significance of St. Augustine as a tourist destination, these grants are vital in funding programs that attract visitors to the area.
Grant Opportunities for For-Profits and Nonprofits
Brenda highlights that both for-profit and nonprofit organizations can be eligible for these grants. While nonprofits can apply for year-round funding to support their operations, for-profits can receive funding to promote specific area events that contribute to the county’s cultural and heritage landscape.
Grant Amounts and Eligibility
The amount of funding an organization can receive varies based on its budget. Grants tied to tourism can reach up to $50,000 for larger organizations or events. Smaller organizations or events with budgets under $100,000 may receive up to 50% of their budget. Brenda stresses that the key to success is building a relationship with the council and demonstrating the effective use of previous grant funds.
St Johns County Arts Culture, and Heritage Grants
Brenda shares some of the impactful programs funded by the council, including the St. Augustine Music Festival, the largest free music festival in the U.S. for chamber music. Other notable initiatives include the 60th anniversary celebration of civil rights demonstrations in St. Augustine, and various arts programs for schools and differently-abled individuals.
State of the Arts and Other Grant Programs
In addition to tourism-related grants, the council also offers the “State of the Arts” grants, funded by the state of Florida through license plate sales. These grants support public arts initiatives and are not focused on tourism. Additionally, the council has received funding from the National Endowment for the Arts to support smaller organizations and individual artists.
Key Tips for Grant Seekers
Brenda emphasizes the importance of understanding the fit between your program and the grant requirements. This includes not only meeting the eligibility criteria but also ensuring that your program aligns with the grant’s objectives. She also stresses the need to be prepared for the reporting and reimbursement processes involved, particularly with the TDC grants.
Stay Informed with Grant Talk
Libby concludes our episode by encouraging listeners to subscribe to Grant Talk for more insights into grant opportunities and tips from funders. Staying informed and connected with resources like GrantWatch can help grant seekers maximize their chances of success.
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Please Note: There is no guarantee of grant awards as a result of this information.
