United Arts Grants Cultural Tourism (CT) Funding
Forecasted
United Arts Grants Cultural Tourism (CT) Funding supports arts and cultural organizations’ public events in Orange County to strengthen cultural identity, provide quality experiences, and attract tourists.
Funder: United Arts of Central Florida
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Draft pre-review) | July 2027 (Full application) | August 2027 (Updated materials)
Funding Amounts: FY27: requests up to $200,000 within a $5,500,000 funding pool; 1:1 match required
Summary: Supports public arts and cultural events in Orange County that strengthen cultural identity, present quality experiences, and attract tourists.
Key Information: Applicants must have successfully delivered an Orange County event drawing significant tourist interest within the last five years.
Description
United Arts of Central Florida facilitates Orange County’s Cultural Tourism Funding program, supported by Tourist Development Tax revenues through the county’s Arts & Cultural Affairs Program. Its objectives are to enhance the Orlando area’s arts and cultural identity, present quality arts and cultural experiences, and promote tourism. Funding supports public-facing cultural events that strengthen the region’s appeal as a visitor destination.
The program serves qualifying arts and cultural organizations with a record of delivering events in Orange County. Proposed events must attract and market to visitors beyond Orange, Osceola, Lake, and Seminole counties. Review considers artistic innovation, excellence and reputation alongside tourism marketing, in-person attendance, community impact, and operational and financial readiness. Recommendations proceed through the Cultural Tourism Review Panel and Advisory Council, with final approval by the Board of County Commissioners.
