UACF Operating Support Grants

The UACF Operating Support Grants offered by United Arts of Central Florida provide essential funding to nonprofit cultural organizations that have been operational for at least three years. These grants aim to enhance the diversity of cultural experiences available to the Central Florida community, recognizing the importance of arts and culture. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and meet specific criteria, including a commitment to public programming and equal opportunity in employment.

NOTE: New applicants (not a current Operating Support Grantee) must notify United Arts of their intent to apply by Letter of Inquiry deadline.

Eligibility

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) status for a minimum of three years as of the grant deadline, in good standing with the State of FL Division of Corporations & the IRS. United Arts will verify the organization's current 501(c)(3) status.Arts and Culture, History, or Science as the primary mission.Completed three years of operations, providing year-round cultural programming (defined as at least four (4) productions, presentations, or instruction of performing, visual, literary, or media (digital and tech) arts, the sciences, or history and heritage per year). Programming must be open to the public. A four-show run of a single production does not satisfy this requirement.Principal office located in Lake, Orange, Osceola, or Seminole county.Have a Unique Entity ID (formerly DUNS#).Have received and successfully completed a Project Grant, Diversity in the Arts Grant or have received Arts and Culture Access funding from United Arts prior to applying for Operating Support. Local governing board (may include members who reside outside Central Florida) that meets at least quarterly, operates in accordance with its bylaws, and reviews and approves the organization’s financial statements.All applicant organizations must have a checking account with a licensed financial institution.Provide equal access and opportunity in employment and services and may not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, geography, age, varying abilities, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, citizenship status, or socioeconomic status.

Ineligibility

Other designated Local Arts AgenciesA public or private entity governed by a county, municipality, school district, community college, college, university, or an agency of state governmentMedia companies (TV/radio/print) Nonprofit radio stations are eligible for project grantsFaith-based organizations – eligible for project grants Fraternal or sports organizationsPolitical causes, candidates, organizations, or campaignsHospitals, health, and disease-specific organizations – eligible for project grantsOrganizations that are a local arm of a state or national organizationOrganizations that are adjuncts to for-profit organizations “Friends of organizations are eligible to apply only in lieu of the parent nonprofit organizationOrganizations that are primarily touring production presenters with budgets over $5 million.Grant dollars cannot be used for any of the following activities:Capital expenditures (including acquisitions or equipment), or any building, renovation, or remodeling of facilitiesDeficit reduction, bad debts, contingencies, fines and penalties, interest payments, litigation costs, or anyother comparable financial costsContributions to cash reserves and/or endowment fundsLobbying or attempting to influence federal, state, or local legislationAwards, prizes, or scholarships for use outside the applicant’s programmingRegranting, contributions, or donations