The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), through the Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA), has announced the distribution of over $1.3 million in grants to support arts and culture in 49 counties. A total of 177 grants were awarded for fiscal year 2026. The General Operating Support Grant will aid 104 nonprofit arts organizations, while the Project Grant will fund 45 specific art initiatives, such as exhibits and workshops. The Arts Education Program Grant will benefit 28 organizations, enhancing arts education in K-12 schools across various disciplines.

In Northwest Georgia, Paradise Gardens Foundation in Chattooga County, the Rome YMCA in Floyd County, and the Catoosa County LIFT Youth Center Art Program all received a Fiscal Year 2026 Opening General Operating Support Grant from the GCA.

These grants aim to strengthen communities, promote tourism, create jobs, and offer educational opportunities that develop creativity and problem-solving skills. Other initiatives supported by Arts Education Grants include afterschool art programs and a musical theater experience at Woodland High School. The funding comes from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional grants planned for fall 2025. GCA used peer review panels to evaluate grant applications.