Oct. 21, 2005

Dr. William Anderson, director of the Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL), today announced the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) has awarded $9.8 million to a variety of arts and cultural projects around the state for fiscal year 2006.  The 301 grant awards – for projects in 64 Michigan counties – were approved this afternoon by the council.

"These grants are an investment in Michigan's economic future, because the arts and cultural sector has such a key role in energizing our state's evolving economy," said Anderson.  "The projects funded illustrate that Michigan has the necessary cultural assets to create and retain jobs, engage tourists and residents, and spark business growth – it's now a matter of harnessing those vast resources to trigger economic prosperity."

In addition to supporting Michigan's major institutions, the grants will help provide funding for such projects as a family night open studio in the Upper Peninsula; the renovation of a vacant auto dealership in to a community arts center; an education program focusing on traditional African dance; and free summer concerts and festivals.

"In challenging financial times, it is more important than ever that we recognize and leverage the value of arts and culture as both an economic-development tool and a major factor in enhancing quality of life for the people of Michigan," said MCACA Chair Craig Ruff.  "These organizations and programs are helping to build the vibrant communities that will set our state apart as a place where people want to live and work, spending their time as well as their dollars." 

The council received 354 applications, requesting nearly $34 million for fiscal year 2006.  All grant applications were evaluated through a process of peer review.  Panels, consisting of arts and cultural professionals from throughout the state, evaluated and judged each application based on published review criteria.  This process resulted in recommendations for funding consideration to the council.  Projects funded by MCACA must be completed within fiscal year 2006, which began Oct. 1, 2005, and ends Sept. 30, 2006.

In determining grant awards, the 15 appointed members of the council consider 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 quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.

Click here for a list of grant recipients and amounts.

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