LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky Arts Council has awarded more than $1.2 million to 112 nonprofit arts organizations across the state through its Kentucky Arts Partnership grant program for fiscal year 2026, according to an announcement by the Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced the grants, which support organizations providing year-round arts programming. Nine new organizations were approved in this year's grant cycle, bringing the total to 103 returning partners and nine newcomers. Among the newly funded organizations are two based in Lexington: GreenRoom Exchange and Casa de la Cultura Kentucky.

The Kentucky Arts Partnership is a competitive annual grant program that provides general operating support to eligible nonprofit arts organizations with average annual revenues of $100,000 or more. The program offers funds for salaries, arts program expenses, and other operating costs.

"Our 103 returning partners can attest to the impact of these grants," said Chris Cathers, Kentucky Arts Council executive director. "Without these funds, many organizations across the commonwealth would not be able to provide experiences that enrich the lives of Kentuckians."

The funding demonstrates the substantial reach of Kentucky's nonprofit arts sector. In fiscal year 2025, participating organizations provided approximately 3.4 million unique arts experiences and generated over $73 million in revenue for communities across the state. The Kentucky Arts Council reported that the state's arts industry generates $6.5 billion in economic impact and supports more than 50,000 jobs.

Funding for the Kentucky Arts Partnership grants comes from the Kentucky General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. Applications for the 2027 grant cycle are currently open, with a deadline of Feb. 15, 2026.