North Carolina Arts Council Gives Out $11M Statewide; $1.2M in Mecklenburg

State officials distributed $11 million to support arts initiatives in every North Carolina county for 2025-26.

In Mecklenburg County, the Arts and Science Council secured $335,000. Groups based in Mecklenburg pulled in $1.2 million total, the highest amount for any county in the state.

"Our state's commitment to supporting arts and culture is critical for our communities and our economy," said Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell, per Queen City News. "The N.C. Arts Council enhances lives and strengthens communities across all 100 counties. We appreciate this continued investment from the Governor and the General Assembly."

Five Charlotte groups received identical $63,500 awards: The NC Performing Arts Center at Charlotte Foundation, Mint Museum of Art, Children's Theatre, Symphony Orchestra, and Ballet. The Ballet got an extra $5,500 to run West African dance classes.

Arts Council Executive Director Jeff Bell spoke about the funding changes. "This year marks the second year of our Sustaining Support Grant," Bell said, per Queen City News. "We are excited to continue to provide important operating support to arts organizations across the state. This type of funding ensures stability for the arts sector in North Carolina."

The money splits into six key areas this year: bringing art to communities, making groups stronger, teaching kids about art, mixing public and private funds, helping service members, and making art more available locally.

Groups can get anywhere from $2,000 to $347,014. The funds support nonprofits, schools, after-school programs, city initiatives, and artists all over North Carolina.

In Mecklenburg County, the Arts and Science Council teaches about culture, plans events, raises money, and gives out grants. They also put art in public spaces and teach skills to local artists.