San Diego City Wire

A new initiative is set to increase funding opportunities for local artists in San Diego County. The San Diego County Arts and Culture Commission, in collaboration with the Office of Economic Development & Government Affairs and the Prebys Foundation, has announced a matching grant program aimed at supporting arts and cultural projects.

Starting December 1, organizations applying for County Community Enhancement grants can receive matching funds from the Prebys Foundation when hiring artists or cultural practitioners. This partnership will provide $250,000 in matching funds to complement the $250,000 available through the county's grants, totaling $500,000.

Grants awarded to organizations will range from $2,500 to $5,000. When matched by the foundation, projects could receive between $5,000 and $10,000. These funds may be used for various artistic endeavors such as murals and public art installations.

“This program effectively doubles the impact of arts funding in our community,” stated Matthew Parr, County Director of Economic Development & Government Affairs. He emphasized that this collaboration would significantly benefit both artists and art enthusiasts.

Prebys Foundation CEO Grant Oliphant expressed enthusiasm about enhancing funding for regional artists: “Envisioning our county as a dynamic hub of arts and culture... we look forward to the thriving arts scene and strengthened partnerships that will result from this collaboration.”

Organizations interested in applying can do so until January 31, 2025. Current applicants will automatically be reviewed for eligibility. Inquiries about the program can be directed to arts@sdcounty.ca.gov.

The San Diego County Arts and Culture Commission aims to support diverse artistic communities within the region. Meanwhile, the Prebys Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive future across San Diego County's unique tri-national area.