This week the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce held their annual “Art is Good Business” day of advocacy in Tallahassee. I was once again honored to represent a group of local business leaders as we made a good case for our state legislators to fund the Division of Cultural Affairs 945 Matching Grant applications.

Reappointed by Governor DeSantis to the Florida Council on Arts & Culture in July 2024, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with the donor match grant applications program for the past five years. Our Council plays a key role in assisting the Department of State with the screening, scoring, ranking, and recommending funding for these critical grants. The state funds allocated are thoroughly vetted and highly accountable. Each application must secure matching funds, ranging from 1:1 to 10:1 based on the budget. After receiving the funds, Grantees are required to meet specific metrics, with quarterly and annual reports ensuring that the funds are used as intended. This is not wasteful spending—it’s carefully monitored and effectively utilized funding!

Did you know that investing in Arts & Culture in Florida yields a 9:1 return on investment? The most recent economic impact study, conducted in partnership with Americans for the Arts, found that this $5.8 billion industry generated $369 million in local and state taxes. The state’s $41 million in grants during the study period were key in driving these tax revenues. In simple terms, the money the state invests in Arts & Culture comes back as tax dollars! It’s truly a WIN-WIN situation!

Beyond the 9:1 ROI, I continue to advocate for full funding of the Florida matching grant program because of the following FACTS:

1. Strong Economic Impact
   • The Arts & Culture industry in Florida generates $5.8 billion in economic activity annually, creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and driving tourism.
2. Job Creation
   • The Arts & Culture sector supports over 100,000 jobs in Florida, contributing to employment in creative industries, education, and local businesses.
3. Tourism Boost
   • Florida’s cultural institutions, events, and festivals attract millions of visitors each year, helping to support the state’s tourism industry.
4. Educational Benefits
   • Arts funding supports arts education programs that improve student engagement, critical thinking, and creativity. These programs also enhance overall academic performance.
5. Community Engagement & Quality of Life
   • Arts & Culture programs enhance the quality of life for Floridians by providing accessible entertainment, fostering community connection, and offering opportunities for personal growth.
6. Local and Regional Economic Benefits
   • Arts funding drives economic activity at the local level, supporting small businesses, cultural organizations, and community events that generate income and tax revenues.
7. Diversity & Inclusivity
   • Arts & Culture funding ensures diverse representation and voices, fostering inclusivity in creative expression, and reflecting Florida’s diverse population.
8. Preservation of Florida’s Cultural Heritage
   • Grant funding supports the preservation of historical landmarks, cultural traditions, and artistic practices that define Florida’s unique identity.
9. Public Health and Well-being
   • Exposure to and participation in the arts has been shown to have mental and physical health benefits, including reduced stress, increased happiness, and improved cognitive function.
10. Attracting Creative Talent
    • A thriving arts scene helps attract creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators, contributing to Florida’s reputation as a hub for talent and creativity.
11. Statewide Accessibility
    • Grant funding helps ensure that arts programs and cultural experiences are accessible to communities across Florida, including rural and underserved areas.
12. Enhances Florida’s Global Image
    • Funding for arts and culture boosts Florida’s reputation as a global cultural destination, attracting international visitors and investors in the creative economy.
13. Long-Term Economic Stability
    • Arts investments generate sustainable long-term economic growth by building a thriving cultural ecosystem that supports businesses, tourism, and education.
14. Boosts Local Tax Revenues
    • Arts & Culture funding directly contributes to local and state tax revenues, with the Florida Arts industry generating $369 million in taxes annually.

Unfortunately, over the years, appropriations have varied significantly. In 2014, we saw 100% of funding requests fulfilled. Since that time, the appropriations have fluctuated wildly. Not represented on the chart, the 2024-2025 tax year was completely zeroed out with no state monies for the arts allocated. The lack of funding this fiscal year caused major repercussions across the arts sector. This year more than ever the need for 100% funding is paramount.

Please join me today by contacting your local state representatives to support funding the arts. Sample letters and more excellent resources can be found on the Florida Cultural Alliance webpage: www.flca.net.

To learn more, check out the following organizations that support arts & culture advocacy:

Florida Division of Arts & Culture

Florida Cultural Alliance

City of Winter Park – Arts & Culture Alliance

United Arts of Central Florida

Winter Park Chamber of Commerce