The Fulton County Board of Commissioners awarded the Department of Arts & Culture an additional $1.7 million in funding. The award, which was unanimously approved during the October 15 Board Meeting, will enhance the County’s Contracts for Services (CFS) program and bolster departmental initiatives that expand arts access for residents.

The resolution was sponsored by District 6 Commissioner Khadijah Abdur-Rahman, with co-sponsorship by Vice Chair Bob Ellis and Commissioners Bridget Thorne and Marvin S. Arrington, Jr. The measure received unanimous support from all Commissioners.

“This Board is in full support of providing funding for the arts, our arts partners, and all residents impacted by the arts,” said Commissioner Abdur-Rahman. “Fulton County has several vital responsibilities. Our goal is to review all needs, then work together to ensure those needs are met, all while being fiscally responsible.”

Funding will support the Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture’s Contracts for Services program, which assists arts partners in delivering high-quality arts programming that enhances the development of local artists and arts organizations.

“This additional funding fuels innovation, supports local talent, and empowers us to deliver world-class cultural experiences that inspire, uplift, and strengthen the fabric of Fulton County,” said Director David Manuel. “Arts and culture are at the heart of a thriving community, and this investment allows us to expand creative opportunities for residents of every age and background.”

Earlier this year, the Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture and the Fulton County Arts Council accepted funding applications and identified organizations eligible for support. As a result, the $1.7 million will be distributed among 155 organizations that were awarded funding in June 2025, as well as 18 organizations that applied but did not receive funding earlier in the year.

The resolution also sets the 2026 Arts & Culture Contracts for Services funding at $3 million. The 2026 General Fund budget will be presented to the Board of Commissioners for review by the end of the year.
For more information about ongoing programs and services, please visit www.fultonarts.org or contact the Department of Arts & Culture at 404-612-4000.

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