NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTIC Radio)—The state of Connecticut is offering up to $9 million in grants for eligible nonprofit arts organizations through the COVID Relief Fund for the Arts Program.
Arts organizations such as performing arts centers, performing groups and schools of the arts will be able to apply for a grant through the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development's (DECD) Office of the Arts.
Qualifying organizations will get a base grant of $5,000, state officials said. The program also offers a supplemental match of 50% of contributed income for organizations that have raised funds between March 10 and November 1, 2020.
Through the match, organizations can get a grant of up to $750,000.
The program is being funded with federal CARES Act funds in order to support arts nonprofits that faced limitations in their operations due to pandemic restrictions and that need funding for rehiring or survival, according to state officials.
While at the Neighborhood Music School in New Haven Monday, Governor Ned Lamont said the grant program will not only help the arts community, but it will also help children that have been isolated for several months amid the pandemic.
"These kids are desperate for that type of social interaction and what you offer," Lamont said in reference to remote piano lessons offered by the school, "that one-on-one relationship perhaps with a piano teacher. Maybe they're in different rooms. Maybe it's on Zoom, but that's what we're fighting for. That's why we're fighting for these kids. That's why we're fighting for the arts," Lamont said.
The State Office of the Arts is accepting applications between Friday, October 23 and Tuesday, November 3. All contracts must be executed by December 30, officials said.
"This program will provide some support so that these groups can continue providing the services in our state that so many depend on," Lamont said.
Additional informational is available on the DECD's website.