Missouri Arts Council, a state agency and division of the Department of Economic Development, provides grants to nonprofit organizations to encourage and stimulate the growth, development, and appreciation of the arts in Missouri. For over 40 years, MAC has provided vital support and leadership to bring the arts to all the people of the state.

Through funds from the Missouri General Assembly, Missouri Cultural Trust, and National Endowment for the Arts, MAC provides grants to make possible quality arts programming to both large and small communities. Examples of organizations that utilize MAC funds include small local arts councils like the Shelbina Arts Council and internationally renown organizations, such as the Saint Louis Symphony.

MAC allocates funding based on the recommendations of the Missourians who serve on advisory panels that meet annually to review applications from organizations seeking grants. The panel's recommendations are based on criteria that includes artistic excellence, education and outreach, community support, administrative ability and diversity of audience served.

Missouri Arts Council
815 Olive Street, Suite 16

St. Louis, MO 63101-1503
(314) 340-6845 or toll-free (866) 407-4752
TDD (800) 735-2966
Fax (314) 340-7215

MISSION STATEMENT
The Missouri Arts Council - as public leader, partner and catalyst - is dedicated to broadening the appreciation and availability of the arts in the state and fostering the diversity, vitality and excellence of Missouri's communities, economy and cultural heritage.

 

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

• We believe that the arts play a vital role in the life and well-being of the
  community. They are an important tool for educational, economic and
  community development and revitalization with significant impact on
  Missouri.

• We recognize, value and encourage artistic activities in Missouri's rural,
  urban and suburban communities.

• We celebrate all of Missouri's diverse cultures and ethnic peoples.

• We acknowledge the individual artist as being core to the continued growth
  of the arts, arts organizations and Missouri communities.

• We value innovation and creative expression in the arts.

• We are committed to creating alliances and partnerships within and outside
  the arts that strengthen the health of the arts.

• We are committed to the effective use of resources and to maintaining
  integrity and accountability in our distribution of public resources.

• We believe that cultural diversity, folk and traditional arts, individual artists
  and education are integral to and need to be woven within all MAC programs
  and initiatives.

Missouri Arts Council board consists of 15 volunteer citizens from across the state, appointed by the Director of Department of Economic Development, to provide direction in policy making and programmatic oversight. The board meets three times a year to review panel recommendations, develop statewide programs and initiatives and consider arts-related issues that affect the state. Organizations receiving funding from the Missouri Arts Council are encouraged to add the MAC board members to their mailing list.