ORLANDO, Fla. –(December 18, 2024) – On December 11, 2024, the board of directors of United Arts of Central Florida (United Arts) approved the recommendation to award $2.45 million in operating support funds to 62 nonprofit cultural organizations across Central Florida. These grants are vital to ensuring the arts, history, and science organizations continue to thrive and fulfill their missions in Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Access all grant recipients here.
General Operating Support Grants and Diversity in the Arts Grants are critical unrestricted funds that empower nonprofits to utilize resources that best suit their needs—whether that means keeping the lights on, employing dedicated staff, or trying innovative projects that might otherwise go unexplored. Many nonprofits rely heavily on this funding to sustain their operations. The continued generosity of donations to United Arts’ Arts for All Fund makes a vibrant arts scene possible in Central Florida.
This year, the need for such grants is particularly acute following significant state funding cuts over the summer that eliminated $32 million in arts funding statewide. Of that amount, more than $6 million would have supported nonprofit organizations across Central Florida, underscoring the importance of funding our local arts and culture community at this time.
Jennifer Evins, president and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida, said, “In a season of great need, we stand firm in our commitment to the arts, science, and history organizations, as well as individual artists, in our region. The $2.45 million in grant support will empower nonprofits to innovate and thrive, ensuring cultural experiences remain accessible to everyone—from our neighbors to visitors from across the globe. Together, we are building a vibrant cultural future for Central Florida and we could not be more proud to be Central Florida’s local arts agency.”
Last year, the impact of the United Arts Operating Support grants was clear: they enabled 42 arts organizations to mount 2,628 exhibitions and productions, created 19,715 opportunities to engage with the arts, provided access and arts education to 492,956 school-aged youth, and attracted 2,158,606 guests. These grants supported 424 full-time and 243 part-time staff positions while engaging 6,107 artists in our local arts ecosystem.
“Being a small non-profit theater surrounded by so many larger arts organizations can be a challenge to be seen and heard,” said Hillary Brook, executive director of Theatre South Playhouse. “Being recognized by the United Arts of Central Florida for our creative achievements and having them believe in our potential for growth is a huge compliment and much needed during these turbulent times.”
The application process for the grant program includes rigorous multi-level vetting to ensure accountability and excellence. First, applicants are screened against eligibility criteria established by the United Arts Community Investment Committee, composed of dedicated United Arts board members. Following this, the applicants’ financial documents are assessed by financial reviewers to evaluate organizational stability and sustainability. Finally, applications undergo a panel review process where artistic excellence, community impact, and merit are considered. These volunteer panels include community members who bring invaluable expertise in the arts, nonprofit management, and community needs to the evaluation process.
The General Operating Support Grants and the Diversity in the Arts grants are funded by the Duke Energy Foundation, Greenberg Traurig LLP, Orange County and City of Orlando’s annual grants to United Arts’ mission and generous donors to United Arts’ Arts for All Fund.
For interviews and more information, please contact C. Major at Major@chauniquamajor.com.
General Operating Support Grantees
The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens ($33,200.00) The Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens preserves the culturally significant works of world-renowned Czech-American sculptor Albin Polasek at the historic home and sculpture gardens in Winter Park. Additionally, the Museum will present unique, high-quality art exhibits and the annual Winter Park Paint Out Plein Air Festival. The exhibits and programs will enhance the reputation of the local arts and culture sector through innovative art displays, unique opportunities to experience visual arts, and quality education and community programs.
Art and History Museums of Maitland ($61,000.00) The Art and History Museums of Maitland (A&H) features four art and history museums that offer immersive and hands-on experiences. The Maitland Art Center, A&H’s most prominent museum and greater Orlando’s only National Historic Landmark, was founded as an artists’ retreat in 1937 by visionary artist and architect J. André Smith. Today, the center’s art and history exhibitions, resident artist programs, and Art School serve the Central Florida community and honor Smith’s legacy.
ArtReach Orlando Inc. ($10,000.00) ArtReach Orlando is a 501c(3), private operating foundation founded in 2012. ARO provides art programs for youth experiencing difficult economic and/or social situations who may not have access to the arts. Through the creative process, we are exploring the link between art, social justice, and the healing process. ArtReach Orlando is supported by an outstanding team of teaching artists and proven partnerships with Orange County Public Schools and other community organizations.
The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park, Inc. ($80,000.00) The Bach Festival Society of Winter Park presents a diverse season of 24 choral and orchestral concerts, including the annual four-week Bach Festival, Visiting Artists, Insights & Sounds, Choral Masterworks, and the newly created Bach Vocal Artists series, as well as outreach and educational programs celebrating the legacy of J.S. Bach. Founded in 1935, it remains Central Florida’s longest-operating performing arts organization and the third-longest-running Bach Festival in the nation.
Bay Street Players Inc. ($10,000.00) The Bay Street Players celebrate their 50th season this year! With 50 years of bringing live entertainment in the 102-year-old Historic State Theatre in Eustis, they are excited to bring a year of incredible productions to their community. As beautiful as their theatre is, the upkeep of a building over a century-old building is daunting. Bay Street Players will use this funding to allow for them to have incredibly produced shows, and keep their building looking beautiful. Things like air-conditioning upkeep and potential renovations to ensure quality experiences for guests are their focus.
Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts Inc. ($10,000.00) Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, a 501(c)3 organization, has established itself as a vital cultural hub in Winter Park, Florida, with a history of supporting the arts through performances, education, and community engagement. The performers are at a high level of achievement in their craft, providing the audience an opportunity to interact with them via questions/answers, sessions, clinics, and other general instruction either individually or in groups. The venue is open to everyone and seats approximately 200 people.
Central Florida Ballet, Inc. ($39,200.00) Central Florida Ballet aims to entertain, educate, and inspire through the universal art form of dance. Innovative and powerful ballet productions, educational programs, and international partnerships are the keystones of the Central Florida Ballet with glowing recognition from The White House, the U.S. House of Representatives, ABC News, CNN Headline News, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal.
Central Florida Community Arts, Inc. ($60,000.00) Central Florida Community Arts serves the community through performance-based programs – such as the Community Choir and Orchestra – that are open for anyone to join regardless of age, ability, or prior experience, and a School of Arts and Health to provide arts access to vulnerable populations.
Central Florida Vocal Arts ($11,300.00) CFVA believes that a kinder, more connected Central Florida is achievable through equitable access to the arts, especially for the most vulnerable in our community. Creating equitable arts access is an investment in people to build a community that believes that they are capable of great things. By providing a platform that celebrates all voices, CFVA uplifts unique perspectives, especially for those that were previously barred by cost or other obstacles. Those we empower today will have the opportunity to use their voices to make a difference tomorrow.
Chance 2 Dance, Inc. ($10,000.00) Chance 2 Dance, Inc. is Florida’s only nonprofit dance studio exclusively dedicated to quality, accommodating dance instruction and performance opportunities for children, teens, and adults with special needs and disabilities. Dancers benefit artistically, physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally from group and individual classes and performances that are open to the public. Dancers challenge themselves and their audiences by redefining perceptions and expectations of what people with varying physical, cognitive, and behavioral abilities can achieve in the performing arts.
Community Communications, Inc. ($10,000.00) Central Florida Public Media is the only local nonprofit news organization covering the nine-county Central Florida region, dedicated to elevating the civic and cultural life of the communities it serves. After four decades as WMFE, the organization adopted a new name in 2024 that uses plain, accessible language to express its local connection, public service mission, and multimedia offerings. CFPM’s journalism and thoughtful, fact-based discussions are freely available to all and accessible via FM and HD radio, on-demand digital platforms, social media, and community gatherings.
Crealde Arts, Inc. ($68,000.00) Crealdé School of Art provides annual community-based visual art experiences to over 50,000 Central Floridians and visitors. Founded in 1975, it offers a yearly curriculum of 169 different classes taught by 44 faculty plus guest instructors on three campuses in Winter Park and Winter Garden, mentoring opportunities for emerging artists, three free galleries, a sculpture garden, traveling exhibitions, and outreach programming that includes the Hannibal Square Heritage Center—established in 2007 as a tribute to Winter Park’s historic African American community.
Creative City Project, Inc. ($25,000.00) Creative City Project began in 2012 as a group of artists performing on street corners and in plazas around downtown Orlando. Over a decade later, Creative City Project is home to some of the South’s most exciting and collaborative art and performance events, gaining national and international attention, and serving thousands of artists and tens of thousands of patrons through meaningful experiences throughout the City of Orlando.
Downtown Arts District ($32,400.00) The Downtown Arts District (DAD) is a dedicated nonprofit organization for advancing arts and economic development in the City of Orlando. Established in 2000, DAD represents and serves the arts community by operating CityArts Orlando (CityArts), producing arts engagement events, executing public art projects, and connecting artists to the business community. Offering a little something for everyone, DAD focuses on the visual arts, storytelling, music, and diverse cultural experiences.
Emotions Dance, Inc. ($10,000.00) To pursue its mission, Emotions Dance provides a combination of inspiring performances of original productions, professional training, and community outreach that serves thousands of people of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds each year. Emotions Dance’s programming emphasizes strong technical training and education combined with passionate artistry.
Enzian Theater ($85,000.00) Enzian Theater provides diverse cinematic programming and innovative educational collaborations as well as several acclaimed film festivals. Enzian screened approximately 500 films in 2024, including world premieres, new releases, independent films, repertory cult classics, family programming, and much more. Enzian shares the stories and cultures of people from all over the world through the medium of film.
The Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra, Inc. ($35,500.00) Since its inception in 1953, Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO) has offered young musicians of all levels the opportunity to learn, explore, and excel, not only in their musical disciplines but in all aspects of their lives. FSYO’s ensembles give students a place to excel with their peers and the chance to collaborate with seasoned professionals locally, nationally, and internationally. Now in its 68th season, FSYO serves 300 students across 8 ensembles.
Fusion Fest Inc. ($10,000.00) FusionFest Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to celebrate the people and the many different cultures that make Central Florida awesome by showcasing talents, sharing stories, driving innovation, and building community based on respect and understanding. Best known for producing the annual FusionFest multicultural festival in Downtown Orlando every Thanksgiving weekend, FusionFest also has several year-round programs that encourage cultural curiosity through food, performance, visual arts, and community building.
Global Peace Film Festival, Inc. ($10,000.00) Global Peace 360º is the new, expanded brand of the Global Peace Film Festival. GP360 is committed to fostering peace, unity, and understanding through its diverse activities, using creative media as the catalyst. The Global Peace Film Festival is the annual centerpiece of GP360 and the new brand presents 360º programming, 365 days a year, encompassing family programming and programming for the whole community.
HAPCO Music Foundation Inc. ($10,000.00) HAPCO Music Foundation’s free educational programs are designed to empower growth and development in creative fields. Programs are conducted in locations central to disadvantaged neighborhoods, connecting young people with industry professionals and giving them inroads into community networks.
Historical Society of Central Florida, Inc. ($37,200.00) The Orange County Regional History Center is an award-winning institution governed dually by the Historical Society of Central Florida (HSCF) and Orange County Government. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is a Smithsonian-affiliated institution. The museum focuses on serving Central Florida and the surrounding community by preserving local history and by providing intriguing exhibitions and programming, public engagement, and access to information.
Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida (HMREC) ($60,000.00) The Center offers free admission for all visitors and houses two permanent exhibits, a VR experience, and a special exhibition gallery. HMREC hosts Holocaust remembrance commemorations, dynamic programs, virtual lunch and learns, and robust education programs for students and teachers.
Howey Music Series ($10,000.00) Howey Music Series (HMS) is a jazz and classical music series that creates opportunities for people from all walks of life to learn about and hear concerts in historic, nontraditional venues. Due to the waning interest in these genres from lack of education about these art forms, HMS makes an impact by presenting concerts with musicians of the highest caliber who share fun facts about the pieces to grow audiences and foster appreciation for this music now and for the future.
International Fringe Festival of Central Florida Inc. ($50,000.00) Orlando Fringe (OF) produces the longest-running Fringe Festival in the US, annually drawing over 60K people to performances, art, music & kids events. 100% of ticket sales are returned to artists. OF also runs a year-round venue called Fringe ArtSpace, home to OF’s annual “FestN4” and many other events. OF also runs year-round educational programs. OF is currently reconfiguring ArtSpace with a “festival model” to provide opportunities for artists in the way OF knows best. OF focuses on supporting artists, arts organizations, and audiences by maintaining accessible, low ticket prices and fees.
Leesburg Center for the Arts ($10,000.00) Born from the Leesburg Art Festival, in 2000 a group of art enthusiasts, community members, organizations, and city officials identified that Leesburg needed a cultural/arts component to improve the quality of life in Leesburg/Lake County. The Art Center helps the community cultivate a friendly environment for artists and creative people of all ages living or visiting in the Leesburg and the Lake County, Florida area. The Art Center provides art exhibitions, conducts art classes for children and adults, public programming (including the Art Festival), and hosts several community groups.
Friends of Mennello Museum of American Art ($15,000.00) Mennello Museum of American Art’s various programming opportunities fulfill the museum’s mission to celebrate outstanding traditional and contemporary American art and artists across a broad range of disciplines. In addition to honoring Folk Art, recent programs contain contemporary and mid-century exhibitions that consider the legacy of American Realism, American Gothic, Abstract Expressionism, Folk Modernism, and Photography and include works of art by artists of color such as Korean American, Vietnamese American, Native American, African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Puerto Rican artists.
Mount Dora Center for the Arts ($18,200.00) Mount Dora Center for the Arts plays a vital role in supporting artists and fostering the arts by showcasing diverse bodies of original artwork in gallery exhibits, facilitating public art installations, offering educational classes for all ages, and organizing outreach to communities limited by geography by taking art to people in places where they live. Offering and organizing vibrant events such as the Mount Dora Viva La Frida Festival and the acclaimed Mount Dora Arts Festival also enrich the cultural landscape and provide support for artists on a national level.
New Generation Theatrical ($10,000.00) Founded in 2019, New Generation Theatrical (New Gen) has emerged as the only theatre company in Orlando to focus exclusively on the presentation of contemporary, original works. The company presents multiple original plays and themed theatrical experiences each season at The Abbey in downtown Orlando and at the New Gen studio at Fashion Square Mall, with some productions also mounted at festivals including the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival when selected.
Opera Orlando ($40,000.00) Opera Orlando is the premier Opera company in the greater Orlando area presenting theatrical works of high artistic quality & innovative integrity, while creatively fusing various genres and mediums to engage the community with original productions and educational programs for all ages.
Orlando Ballet, Inc. (OB) ($250,000.00) serves Central Florida through 3 focus areas: the professional Company, which provides an annual season of full-length ballets, new works, and non-traditional programs; Orlando Ballet School, which attracts more than 1,500 students annually; and Community Enrichment programs that bring the physical and mental benefits of dance to a wide range of under-resourced individuals.
Orlando Family Stage ($170,000.00) Orlando Family Stage is Central Florida’s foremost professional family theatre where audiences of all ages see their favorite stories come to life on stage. Our award-winning educational programs also reach children and teachers across our community with high-caliber arts programming and access.
Orlando Gay Chorus, Inc. ($10,000.00) Orlando Gay Chorus inspires individuals, the community, and the world through excellence in musical entertainment. Entering its 33rd year, Orlando Gay Chorus uses music to bring the community together and make the world a better place.
Orlando Museum of Art Inc. ($150,000.00) As the oldest cultural organization in the city, the OMA is beginning its second century of programming with an exciting line-up of exhibitions that celebrate residents, important historical moments, and interdisciplinary approaches. These are complemented by a wide range of educational programs designed to directly engage locals and visitors. OMA’s expanded programming addresses wellness and soon, the environment allowing the museum to reach new audiences while also addressing relevant societal issues. The ever-expanding collection allows OMA to provide innovative experiences.
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Inc. (OPO) ($250,000.00) is led by Music Director Eric Jacobsen and presents four major series annually: Classics for timeless works, Pops for a variety of popular music, Focus for a balanced mix of classical composers and diverse new work, and Symphony Storytime bringing stories to life with live music. The OPO also supports music education and community engagement performances for tens of thousands of people each year. From hospitals to community parks to Steinmetz Hall, OPO delivers live music to more than 150,000 people around Central Florida.
Orlando Science Center, Inc. ($250,000.00) is Central Florida’s award-winning, hands-on science museum. Through immersive exhibits, innovative educational programs, and a deep commitment to community outreach, the Science Center is an invaluable community resource and a leader in the arts and culture industry.
Orlando Shakespeare Theatre, Inc. ($225,000.00) Orlando Shakes in partnership with UCF produces innovative classic, contemporary, and children’s theater and offers immersive educational programming in the heart of Orlando’s premier cultural hub, Loch Haven Park. Orlando Shakes annually produces a Signature Series, Children’s Series, Concert Series, and a new play festival, PlayFest, while providing year-round arts education programming.
Orlando Urban Film Festival Foundation Inc. ($10,000.00) The Orlando Urban Film Festival Foundation Inc. goal is to provide access to public platforms and audiences for newcomers in cultural arts and creators to gain exposure and an opportunity to gain exposure, education, and experience. Creators can build a professional portfolio for presentations to help them gain an opportunity to work for their creative talents.
Orlando Youth Chamber Ensembles ($10,000.00) At The Orlando Youth Chamber Ensembles, OYCE is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians. OYCE’s mission is to provide supplemental music education and performance opportunities to young people in the OYCE community. Through OYCE’s different ensembles, we help students develop their musical talents, build positive relationships with other students throughout the county, and foster a lifelong love of music.
Page 15, Inc. ($16,000.00) Since 2008, Page 15 has transformed lives through the power of words. Using creative writing as a medium of self-expression, Page 15 invites young people, many of whom are at risk due to poverty and personal trauma, to explore their creativity through various journaling, poetry, and other creative writing projects.
Performing Arts of Maitland Inc. ($10,000.00) PAM provides financial support to eight musical performing groups. Maitland Symphony Orchestra, Bravo Chamber Orchestra, Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra, Chamber Music Players, Maitland Stage Band, Maitland Market Musicians, Bravo String Quartet, and PAMCares.
Each of these director-led groups has a distinctive way of accomplishing a shared mission in the community of entertaining, including, and educating their audiences. PAM directors are paid by activity; rehearsal and performance. PAM provides all indirect costs that support their activities.
Playwrights’ Round Table, Inc. ($10,000.00) Playwrights’ Round Table (PRT) launched in 1997 as a playwriting support group to develop local writers by first establishing a monthly playwriting workshop where actors read works from established and emerging playwrights. Many of these plays were produced by PRT and/or submitted nationally. Since 1997, PRT has produced over 600 new plays by over 150 different playwrights. Today, PRT produces three 10-minute play festivals, a Juneteenth 10-minute play festival, and one full-length play every year, bringing emerging talent to the Central Florida region to develop new plays.
Renaissance Theatre Company, Inc. ($10,000.00) Renaissance Theatre Company (or The Ren) is a new company dedicated entirely to original works, written and created by local artists. Founded in 2021, The Ren is already well-known for large, stylish immersive experiences, including Nosferatu, a 360-degree blockbuster where audiences move from space to space in the company’s 15,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Orlando. The Ren is more than a theater company; open more than 300 nights per year, popular weekly events such as Musical Mondays and Off-the-Record Wednesdays have cemented the Ren as a gathering place for artists and the LGBT+ community.
The Steinway Society of Central Florida ($10,000.00) Steinway Society of Central Florida provides keyboards, refurbished pianos, and free piano lessons to economically and culturally disadvantaged children. The Society also sponsors concerts, recitals, workshops, ,and master classes for the general public, as well as for students in a school setting.
Theatre South Playhouse, Inc. ($10,000.00) In 2009, Executive Director Hillary Brook started Theatre South Orlando with a philosophy that when students are inspired by working with diverse professional artists, anything is possible. Theatre South not only became a safe place for young people to explore theatre arts but also a place for local artists to share their gifts. In 2016 Theatre South became a non-profit under the new name “Theater South Playhouse”. Today Theatre South Playhouse has evolved into a professional theater, a one-of-a-kind academic conservatory, and a community center for kids, teens, and adults to learn their craft.
Timucua Arts Foundation ($10,000.00) Timucua Arts Foundation is a multi-faceted arts and education institution, presenting concerts and festivals, operating the unique and intimate Timucua venue, and delivering education and wellness programming to people of all ages. Timucua’s distinctive integration of the performing and visual arts has carved a niche for high-level, accessibly-priced programming in an intimate venue. Presenting jazz, contemporary classical, and world music, theater, film, poetry, and visual art.
Museum of Military History Inc. ($10,000.00) The museum started as the Veterans Tribute & Museum of Osceola Co. Inc. at the Osceola Square Mall in 2003 as a Vietnam War Memorial. It moved to its current location in 2012 and now does business as the Museum of Military History. The Museum of Military History, Inc. was created as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2010 and has been in operation for twelve years. The Museum of Military History and the Veterans Tribute & Museum of Osceola Co. operate as two separate nonprofits providing the preservation of artifacts and educational awareness of U.S. Military history.
Winter Garden Art Association, Inc. ($10,000.00) Winter Garden Art Association, founded in 2013, is a 501c3 nonprofit operating the SOBO Gallery and Studio in the city’s original fire station constructed during the Great Depression. The mission is to encourage individual creativity and artistic expression, promote community involvement and cooperation, and advance the appreciation, education, and availability of visual and cultural arts. This is accomplished through bi-monthly exhibitions of 2D and 3D artwork, workshops for adults, classes, and camps for kids, and special programs for families.
Winter Garden Heritage Foundation ($10,000.00) The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation (WGHF) preserves the heritage of West Orange County. WGHF accomplishes its mission by operating three locations in Winter Garden: the Heritage Museum, which features exhibits on the history of West Orange County; the History Research, Education, and Visitors’ Center, which houses an extensive archive documenting the area’s past; and the Central Florida Railroad Museum which showcases the influence the railroad has had in the development of Florida.
Winter Park Historical Association ($10,000.00) The Winter Park History Museum is an exhibition and collections-based organization focusing on Winter Park History. The WPHM collects and preserves thousands of relevant city archives for research and exhibition purposes. The free museum relies on grants and private donations to fund rotating exhibitions and the WPHM Archives and Special Collections.
The Winter Park Playhouse ($38,000.00) The Winter Park Playhouse is a 501(c)(3) non-profit professional musical theatre that has been serving Central Florida residents and visitors since 2002. It exclusively produces musical programming year-round including Mainstage musicals, Spotlight Cabarets, special events, community outreach programs, and the internationally recognized Florida Festival of New Musicals.
Diversity in the Arts Grantees
African Diasporic Arts and Education Inc. ($10,000.00) We celebrate African and African diasporic arts through performances and educational outreach while presenting and contextualizing varied African and African diasporic performing arts and encouraging audiences to explore commonalities within these cultures. Our goal is to increase understanding between these artistic traditions by illuminating their shared experiences and histories and fostering connections in our global society by cultivating knowledge of the vibrant art of the African diaspora.
Arching Oaks Art and Culture Center ($20,000.00) Arching Oaks Art and Culture Center is a multi-faceted organization dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of traditional Japanese arts and cultural practices within the Central Florida community. Programs include arts outreach initiatives at local schools and libraries, a Veterans support program, monthly Japanese fine arts classes and workshops, and instruction in traditional Japanese Budo arts.
Association to Preserve Eatonville Community, Inc. ($20,000.00) P.E.C. is a multidisciplinary organization, which presents programs in the arts, the humanities, and the sciences. We view Eatonville as perfectly positioned to meet the multi-billion dollar cultural heritage tourism market as a means of bringing economic prosperity to Zora Neale Hurston’s beloved hometown. Thus, P.E.C. seeks to develop year-round cultural heritage tourism for Eatonville, while at the same time, presenting the finest cultural offerings to our residents.
Caribbean American Passport Multicultural Initiative ($10,000.00) We are a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering artists and creatives from the Caribbean diaspora in Florida. Our programs and initiatives have 5 main aims:
- Connecting and Showcasing the Caribbean American Community
- Fostering Cultural Development and Global Connections
- Bridging the Gap with the Arts Community
- Pillar for Economic Diversification and Employment
- Empowering Caribbean Diaspora Artists in the Global Economy
Casa de Mexico de la Florida Central, Inc. ($20,000.00) Casa de Mexico (CdM) has operated continuously since 1997. CdM preserves Mexico’s cultural heritage and achieves acceptance through cultural awareness/education. Notable initiatives include annual cultural events, academic scholarships, and support for local organizations that benefit the Hispanic community. Most events are free and open to the public. Casa de Mexico features upcoming local artists to expose their craft to the community. All artists are paid for their services.
Descolonizarte Teatro, Inc. ($20,000.00) Descolonizarte Teatro is a professional Latinx theater organization centering Latinx immigrants, and LGBTQ+ identities and their intersections. We promote Latinx experiences, cultures, and talents through theater, arts, and educational programs, focusing on accessibility for underprivileged Latinx communities, and decolonization: recognizing and returning to our roots, re-framing/re-telling stories about ourselves, our bodies, our history, and knowledge, building community around healing and joy.
Escuela de Bomba y Plena Tata Cepeda ($20,000.00) Escuela de Bomba y Plena Tata Cepeda is a non-profit organization based in Kissimmee, FL, dedicated to preserving and promoting Afro-Puerto Rican traditions, specifically Bomba and Plena. The organization is led by Executive Director Barbara Liz Cepeda, a 7th-generation member of the renowned Cepeda family from Puerto Rico, and offers dance and percussion classes, special performances, and events that celebrate Puerto Rico’s culture and heritage to serve communities within Central Florida.
Goldsboro West Side Community Historical Association, Inc. ($20,000.00) On December 1, 1891, the township of Goldsboro was established as the second African American incorporated City in the United States. Exactly 100 years after Goldsboro’s City charter was stolen by the City of Sanford…The Goldsboro Museum was born in 2010 to showcase and preserve the history, heritage, livelihood, and culture of Goldsboro, Florida.
Musiva Concert Series, Inc. ($20,000.00) Musiva is an Orlando-based concert series showcasing Ibero-American contributions to concert music through accessible chamber performances, educational encounters, and community outreach. Through free and bilingual concerts, the Musiva Concert Series encourages underserved audiences to participate in the classical music tradition in a way that is inclusive, accessible, and engaging.
Open Scene ($20,000.00) Open Scene is a vibrant Latin women-led cultural hub that offers multilingual performances, immersive art installations, and innovative experiences celebrating global arts and culture. Through high-quality, accessible programming, we bridge cultural gaps and enrich the community with creative and humanistic experiences that foster empathy, multicultural understanding, and sustainability for artists. We proudly produce the annual Latin Performing Arts Festival.
Orlando Community Arts, Inc. ($10,000.00) Orlando Community Arts, Inc., is an African American 501c3 organization located in Orlando, Florida. Throughout the year, participants performing in the holiday production of Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker, are allowed to expand their cultural awareness and participation with local cultural arts performing groups. The holiday production group’s participants are from India, Africa, Haiti, the Caribbean, Asia, Puerto Rico, and Brazil.
Raymi Dance School Incorporated ($10,000.00) We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating the rich culture of Peru through dance, music, theater, and other cultural expressions. We are committed to cultivating a positive learning environment that fosters cultural inclusion and brings awareness to Peruvian culture.
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