Because we should be inspired by where we live
And we believe that things like art and music and street performances have this power to turn empty plazas into bustling centers. We invest in our public spaces because it boosts our economy and gives us a sense of neighborhood pride.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
At the Peace and Justice Institute’s 8th Annual Conference, United Arts of Central Florida President and CEO Jennifer Evins shared a powerful reminder: creativity belongs to everyone. Through research, partnerships, and programs focused on health and well-being, United Arts is expanding access to the arts as an essential part of building healthier, more connected communities across Central Florida.
For over 30 years, Disney has invested in the creative future of Central Florida, contributing over $3 million to support artists, arts education, and nonprofit cultural organizations through United Arts. Recently celebrated at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, this long-standing partnership reflects a shared belief that the arts are essential to a vibrant and thriving community. Discover how Disney’s commitment continues to strengthen our region’s creative ecosystem.
United Arts of Central Florida has been selected as a 2026 South Arts Cross-Sector Impact Grant recipient, supporting a new partnership with Nemours Children’s Hospital to connect pediatric patients and families with arts experiences that support health and wellbeing.
Community Vibrancy Grants
Employing local artists to boost businesses
Funded by the Ginsburg Family Foundation, The Community Vibrancy grant program is a place-based pilot program that engages local performing artists to enliven public spaces within the commercial districts of Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. This program supports Main Streets to keep our communities vibrant.
Main Street programs, Market Street programs, merchant associations or other nonprofits with “an economic-development or creative-community-development mission” in the four Central Florida counties are eligible to apply. Visit our Grants Search page to learn more.
Project opportunities for local artists
Commissioning local artists for community projects
We connect local artists with opportunities to create for public and private spaces. If you’re an artist or teaching artist, please visit our Artist Hub/Directory to learn more about opportunities in our community and get notified on potential projects that you may be commissioned for.
Cross-sector Impact Programs
Using art to do good in new ways
Art and creativity affect all aspects of our lives — especially our mental well-being. These programs introduce the power of art to help other sectors such as military veterans, mental health, and public art projects.
- Arts and the Military – connecting veterans and active-duty men and women to creative experiences in support of mental health and wellness
- Arts and Mental Health Awareness – cross sector partnerships to integrate proven arts integration into mental health initiatives
- Public Art Projects – Neighborhood Murals, Sculptures, and initiatives to include public in public art process
- Arts and Cultures– festivals, exhibitions and projects that highlight the many cultures in Central Florida
You can help — contact us to learn more and get involved in one of these cross-sector impact programs.
Spark the Arts!
Turning commercial spaces into thriving artist residencies and galleries
Spark the Arts is a dynamic collaboration between United Arts of Central Florida and Highwood Properties, transforming commercial spaces in Downtown Orlando into thriving art studios and galleries. This innovative initiative supports local artists while adding vibrancy and cultural richness to the city.
IN THE News
Want to learn more?
United Arts is the leading arts agency in Central Florida. We fund and fuel the organizations and events that shape our community. For questions or finding ways to get involved, please contact us!
