At the December 11, 2025, meeting, the Central MN Arts Board (CMAB) awarded $35,578 in Arts Organization Development Grants.
The CMAB Arts Organization Development program provides funds up to $10,000 to support activities and purchases that contribute to organizational sustainability, growth and improvement of nonprofit arts organizations in Region 7W. These funds are also available to assist arts groups in establishing 501(c)(3) status. Funding for this grant program is provided through an appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the state’s general fund, and the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund created by the Voters of Minnesota.
The following organizations were awarded:
1. Annandale Art and Textile Center in Annandale, MN, was awarded $3,554 to purchase and install an “ADA Power Door Operator” door opener for guests, a current weaving employee, future weavers and class participants to independently enter or exit the building in Annandale, MN.
2. Avon Hills Folk School in Avon, MN, was awarded $10,000, in support of a part-time Program Director position to increase capacity, organizational growth and programing.
3. Great River Educational Arts Theatre in Waite Park, MN, was awarded $9,720, for immersive training sessions focused on staff development and evaluation for equity, diversity, inclusion, and intercultural competency in the workplace.
4. Paramount Center for the Arts in Saint Cloud, MN, was awarded $10,000, for the upgrade and redesign of the organization’s website to simplify navigation, improve staff and visitor accessibility, and boost engagement.
5. The St. John’s Boys’ Choir in Collegeville, MN, was awarded $2,304, in support of purchasing a new portable keyboard with built-in speakers for flexibility in performance at locations.
The Central Minnesota Arts Board supports collaborative and innovative arts opportunities through partnerships and financial investments in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties as one of eleven Regional Arts Councils designated by the Minnesota State Arts Board working with community partners to increase access to the unique cultural assets of Minnesota.