September 12, 2003

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced $11.4 million in arts and cultural funding for projects that will collectively serve all of Michigan's 83 counties. The 305 grant awards were approved this afternoon by the 15 appointed members of the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA).

"The arts quench our souls' thirst for beauty every day," Governor Granholm said today. "The organizations supported in part by these grant awards are vital to the quality of life in their communities, supplying everything from in-school educational programming and after-school programs that support lifelong learning to operas, symphonies and improved cultural facilities.

"Michigan's arts and cultural organizations play a critical role in the economic development and revitalization of our cities, townships and villages they serve, especially in these fiscally difficult times. The arts and cultural organizations represented here are fully engaged in our efforts to attract and retain the business we need to compete in the new economy," she said. "They support artists, produce festivals and provide exhibits, all celebrating our state's uniqueness, and are truly central to making Michigan the best place to live and raise a family."

The council received 432 applications, requesting over $40 million for fiscal year 2004. All grant applications were evaluated through a process of peer review. Panels, consisting of arts and cultural professionals from throughout the state, considered and judged each application based on published review criteria. This process culminated in recommendations for funding consideration to the council. Projects funded by MCACA must be completed within fiscal year 2004, which begins Oct. 1, 2003, and ends Sept. 30, 2004.

"These matching grants are a great example of state-local partnerships, the kind of collaboration that has made Michigan a leader and innovator in its support of arts and culture," said Dr. William Anderson, director of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL). "Even in the face of our slowly recovering economy, cultural organizations at the local, regional and state level are working together to find creative ways to bring arts and culture to Michigan citizens and are playing an active role in reshaping our state's future."

In determining grant awards, the council considers panel recommendations, geographic distribution, diversity, balance among funding programs, under-served communities, access and delivery of quality programming and services to citizens and communities.

MCACA is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries. Dedicated to enriching the quality of life for Michigan residents by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Michigan Historical Center, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan Film Office.

Contact: Sarah Lapshan, HAL
810-599-1639 (cell)
517-241-1736 (office)
Liz Boyd, Governor's Office
517-335-6397

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.