The Grassroots Arts Program (GAP) was developed to ensure that every county has access to state-supported arts programs and funding – especially small, traditionally underserved communities.  Central to the philosophy of GAP is the element of local control, allowing citizens to have a voice in how arts funding is distributed in the state, to support emerging arts organizations, to diversify and expand arts audiences and to encourage regional and multi-county arts programming. 

     All 159 counties in Georgia are provided a local allocation of funds determined by a formula set by the Georgia General Assembly.  Half of the county allocation is a flat rate, shared equally among all counties.  The remaining half is determined on a per capita basis.  

     A network of Grassroots Arts Agencies throughout Georgia has fueled the arts and community development by administering the Grassroots Arts Program in cities, small towns, and rural areas throughout the state. Becoming a GAP Agency is an excellent way to foster positive partnerships, economic development, cultural tourism, and enhanced quality of life in a county or region.

Who Can Apply for a GAP Grant?
     Georgia Council for the Arts requires that sub-grantees receiving GAP funds be incorporated in Georgia, be a not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization certified by the IRS or be a unit of government.  Organizations that have not incorporated as a not-for-profit can apply through a fiscal agent: an organization or unit of government that meet the requirements above.

     Examples of eligible organizations, in addition to arts organizations and institutions of higher learning, include senior citizen centers, chapters of the Red Cross or Salvation Army, Family Connections, Boys and Girls Clubs, graduate chapters of sororities/ fraternities, civic and social welfare organizations, social and recreational clubs, fraternal societies, churches, and veterans organizations.

How Can the Funding be Used?
     The intent of GAP is to support arts programs and services as broadly as possible.  Approved sub-grantee projects should create opportunities for community-wide access to the arts, target underserved populations, and/or contribute to activities that have a positive impact on community development.  Funded activities must be accessible and available to the general public or designed as outreach to specific underserved populations.

For More Information

     For more information about Grassroots Arts funding opportunities in your county, please contact the local GAP Agency or visit the Sub-Grantee section of the GAP e-Manual.  For a list of GAP Agencies please visit the GAP Agency Directory .