The Greater Columbus Arts Council has approved $13,340,848 in operating support and general support grants for Columbus-area arts and culture organizations. The awards include 22 Operating Support grants totaling $12,637,222 and 18 General Support grants totaling $703,626. Funding comes from the City of Columbus hotel and motel bed tax, the arts and culture ticket fee, and Franklin County appropriations.

The arts council noted it took a conservative approach in its 2026 grant cycle in response to shifting economic conditions. Operating Support grants go to established organizations with a track record of programming, while General Support grants assist smaller and emerging groups. Together the awards represent the primary source of public arts funding for nonprofit organizations across the Columbus region.

The Greater Columbus Arts Council administers public arts funding on behalf of the city and county, distributes grants, and advocates for the creative sector in central Ohio.

Source: Greater Columbus Arts Council