City of Bellevue Art and Cultural Facilities Grant Program

The City of Bellevue Art and Cultural Facility Grant Program aims to fund capital projects by arts and cultural organizations within Bellevue, Washington. This program directly supports the city's commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape, recognizing the importance of well-maintained and accessible facilities for artistic expression and community engagement. The program's mission aligns with the broader goal of enriching the lives of Bellevue residents by ensuring robust and sustainable cultural infrastructure. It prioritizes the physical foundations that enable arts and cultural organizations to thrive, acknowledging that facility health is critical for long-term operational success and public service. The target beneficiaries are nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Bellevue that require funding for capital projects or facility maintenance. The ultimate impact goal is to enhance the longevity, functionality, and accessibility of cultural facilities, thereby expanding access to arts and culture for underrepresented groups and the general public. Expected outcomes include improved physical spaces for performances, exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, leading to increased participation and engagement from Bellevue residents. Measurable results could include the number of facilities renovated or maintained, the increase in program offerings, and the growth in audience attendance or participant numbers. The program has two distinct focuses: Capital Projects and Facility Maintenance. Capital Projects encompass acquiring property, building new facilities, acquiring specialized equipment, and major building renovations. Facility Maintenance focuses on preventative maintenance and repairs to preserve existing arts and cultural facilities. Both types of projects are prioritized, reflecting a comprehensive strategy for supporting the physical infrastructure of the arts. The funding structure for Capital Projects allows for requests up to $499,999 for renovations and equipment, with potential for higher requests for land acquisition or new construction, provided it doesn't exceed 40% of the total project budget. Facility Maintenance grants also cap at $499,999. Eligibility criteria emphasize a commitment to public benefit, a sustainable financial model, and a strong presence in Bellevue. Organizations must be nonprofits in good standing for at least two years and not be dependent on City funding for their operational staffing or facility maintenance. A key strategic priority is to ensure that public funding translates into tangible public benefits, such as free or reduced-fare tickets, scholarships for arts education, and services that expand access to underrepresented groups. This aligns with a theory of change where investment in cultural infrastructure and organizational stability directly leads to increased public access and engagement with the arts. Project eligibility also requires site control and a commitment to operating the facility for a minimum of five or ten years, depending on the project size, demonstrating a long-term vision for cultural sustainability in Bellevue.