Orange County, FL
09/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/03/2025 22:07
Arts Investment and Community Impact: Orange County’s Cultural Grants Deliver Big Returns
From the vibrant sounds of Opera Orlando to the international buzz of the Orlando Fringe Festival, the arts in Orange County are more than entertainment - they are an economic driver, a tourism magnet and a vital part of what makes the region a great place to live.
And at the heart of it all is Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs.
Each year, this dedicated office helps fund hundreds of arts and cultural events through its Cultural Tourism grant program - a powerful tool that pairs public investment with private support to generate extraordinary returns for the community.
"Our goal is to uplift local arts while being responsible stewards of public dollars," said Vicki Landon, director of Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs. "This program brings value to residents, artists and visitors alike - all while strengthening the cultural fabric of Orange County."
A Smart Return on Investment
Funded entirely by Tourist Development Tax (TDT) dollars, Cultural Tourism grants offer matching grants of up to $190,000 to support programs by nonprofit arts organizations that attract out-of-town visitors. Grantees include well-loved institutions such as Orlando Ballet, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Orlando Shakes, Orlando Family Stage, and major events like the Florida Film Festival and Orlando Fringe.
In fiscal year 2024, Orange County awarded nearly $4 million in grants to 40 local nonprofits. Those organizations, in turn, brought more than $38 million in matching funds to the table - a nearly tenfold return on the County's investment.
"Our grants are structured so the more money you ask for, the more you're expected to demonstrate impact and accountability," explained Landon. "That ensures fairness, access and strong fiscal oversight."
Accountability and Community Access
The program is governed by the Arts & Cultural Affairs Advisory Council, a 13-member body composed of community members and one County Commissioner. Each application is scored by a panel, reviewed by the Council and approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
All meetings are public, and all grantees must submit detailed reports, attendance data and spending documentation - with oversight provided by United Arts of Central Florida, the County's fiscal agent.
In FY24, funded programs reached an audience of more than 1.8 million people, 25 percent of whom were tourists. The economic ripple effect was substantial: an independent analysis showed an $89 million economic impact, the support of more than 2,600 full-time-equivalent jobs, and over $5 million in state government revenue.
"Our cultural investments are paying off," said Landon. "They enrich lives, grow tourism and create jobs - all while showcasing the incredible talent we have right here in Orange County."
Orange County, FL published this content on September 03, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on September 04, 2025 at 04:07 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]