Pennsylvania Council on the Arts Announces New Funding Opportunity for Creative Placekeeping Projects
Harrisburg, PA – Today, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) announced the launch of Pennsylvania Creative Communities, a new initiative to support vibrant communities across the commonwealth. The initiative aims to spur community-driven, arts-based projects that serve as catalysts for livability, economic development, and community connectedness. Funded projects will have a demonstrated, positive impact on their respective communities.
“The arts are increasingly recognized for their value, not only to the welfare and well-being of our citizens, but also as a contributor to the economic health of the commonwealth,” said Governor Wolf. “A thriving local arts community has been linked to increased health, prosperity, and to innovative business economies in both rural and urban areas.”
Two-to-four pilot communities will be selected in 2019 to each receive up to $25,000 per year for up to four years. Eligible applicants include local governments and 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) organizations.
“Pennsylvania enjoys a robust creative sector and many distinguished cultural assets that can help stimulate local economies, civic engagement, revitalization, and innovation,” PCA Executive Director Karl Blischke said. “We look forward to supporting projects driven by local input and needs and harnessing the power of the arts to help build communities.”
The community selection process will begin with the submission of letters of interest, followed by review and site visits to a limited number of communities. Selected communities will be invited to submit a full application.
Interested communities can access submission instructions, program selection criteria, and application guidelines at arts.pa.gov. Letters of interest may be submitted May 31 to June 28, 2019. Inquiries should be directed to Sarah Merritt at skmerritt@pa.gov or 717-787-1521.
The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) is a state agency under the Office of the Governor. By leveraging the immense potential of Pennsylvania’s arts and cultural sector, the PCA supports jobs, builds community, motivates learning, promotes the commonwealth nationally and internationally, and sparks innovation. Governed by a Council of 15 citizen members appointed by the governor, and 4 legislative members, the mission of the PCA is to strengthen the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of Pennsylvania’s communities through the arts.
MEDIA CONTACT: Norah Johnson, 717-525-5549
