Grant Funding Doubled in 2024 to $120,000
More than $1 Million in Funding Made Available Since Program’s Inception
Would Continue Support of ‘Jazz on Jay’ & ‘Kids Art Fest’ as they Celebrate 30 Years
The Schenectady County Legislature passed a resolution through committee to award over 60 organizations a total of $120,000 in funding through the Schenectady County Legislature Arts & Culture Grant. These grants, which are funded through the County’s hotel and motel occupancy tax, were created to help support local organizations’ activities in historic education, the performing, visual and literary arts, or programs promoting tourism. To take effect, the resolution must be passed by the Legislature at their regular meeting on May 14, 2024.
Formerly known as the County Initiative Program (CIP), the Schenectady County Legislature Arts & Culture Grant was reimagined this year to include new ways for more organizations to get involved and expand the eligibility pool. This year the program will reach $1 million in grant funding awarded to local organizations, supporting over 750 arts, cultural, and tourism projects throughout Schenectady County since 2002.
“Supporting the arts and cultural events fosters a vibrant, inclusive community that enhances the quality of life for our residents and families,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “The Legislature doubled our grant program this year to $120,000, aiming to expand the program's impact throughout Schenectady County and drive economic growth that supports our local businesses and restaurants.”
The Schenectady County Legislature Arts & Culture Grant has supported a variety of events and programs across the County, including concert series, neighborhood festivities, as well as cherished local traditions such as Jazz on Jay, Kids Arts Fest, Scotia Fireworks, Music Haven, Hamilton Hill Arts Center, and Freedom Park, among others.
After approval by the Legislature, a full list of grant recipients will be available at https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/legislature/arts-culture-grant.
Learn more about the Schenectady County Legislature at https://www.schenectadycountyny.gov/legislature.