Advocates Say New N.Y. Arts Funds Leave Small Groups in Cold

Arts advocates say small culture organizations are unlikely to see any of an extra $4-million set aside by New York State to support the arts this fiscal year, writes the New York Daily News.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office announced the 12-percent increase in arts funding in April. The New York City Arts Coalition, one of several groups that had rallied for more culture funds, said strings attached to the new money — including a $50,000 minimum for grant applications and a matching-finds requirement — will freeze out smaller institutions.

“Despite good intentions, I don’t think it’s going to work well,” said Norma Munn, the coalition’s president. The $50,000 threshold and a short time frame for applications, which are due July 16, will shut out “75 to 80 percent” of New York City culture groups, she said.