Somerset County History Partnership Program

Operating Grants I & II, offered by the Arts Council for Long Beach (ACLB), provide unrestricted support to Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations. The primary mission of these grants aligns with the ACLB's commitment to fostering artistic excellence by supporting organizations that collect, preserve, present, and/or commission exemplary works of art, including visual art exhibitions, theatre, dance, and musical performances. This directly supports the foundation's goal of enriching the cultural landscape of Long Beach by empowering organizations that contribute to the arts. The target beneficiaries for these grants are Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations with annual budgets exceeding $250,000. These organizations must produce works of art of regional significance, benefiting the general public, and offering educational opportunities to enhance artistic understanding and appreciation. The impact goals are multi-faceted, aiming to strengthen both artistic programming and organizational management, ultimately leading to a positive community impact. The program prioritizes several key areas. Artistically, it seeks to encourage the development of long-term, high-quality artistic programs and support innovative, creative, and unique projects that challenge audiences and participants. In terms of organizational management, the grants support best practices, including long-term planning, accountability, fund development, transparency, evaluation, appropriate qualifications of board and staff, and overall fiscal health. Community impact is also a significant focus, supporting organizations that identify and meet community needs through planning and program delivery, develop new audiences, and foster tourism or expand the market for artistic disciplines. Expected outcomes include the creation of quality artistic programs, innovative projects, and improved organizational management practices. Measurable results would involve the development of new audiences, enhanced community engagement, and a stronger arts ecosystem in Long Beach. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated, the program implicitly operates on the theory that by providing robust operational support and promoting best practices in artistic and organizational development, the ACLB can cultivate a vibrant and sustainable arts and culture sector that enriches the lives of Long Beach residents and attracts visitors. Funding information indicates grant awards for OPG I range from $5,000 to $8,000, and for OPG II from $18,000 to $25,000.