At the September 17, 2020 meeting, the Central MN Arts Board (CMAB) awarded $20,000 in Organizational Development Grants to help maintain & strengthen the infrastructure of nonprofit arts organizations in Region 7W.

The following organizations were awarded:
1. Buffalo Community Theater, Wright County, received $5,000 for theater technology upgrades in sound and lighting for future performances.
2. Great River Chorale, Benton County, received $5,000 for the redevelopment and redesign of their website to improve accessibility and content updates as well as provide virtual rehearsals and performances.
3. Great River Education Arts Theatre, Stearns County, received $5,000 to hire Bit Stream Productions, a local company, to partner in four live stream public performances.
4. Paramount Center for the Arts, Stearns County, received $5,000 in support of upgrading the building for COVID-19 mitigation as well as orientation material on health and safety protocol for staff, performers and patrons.

The CMAB Organizational Development program provides funds to help establish, maintain & strengthen the infrastructure of nonprofit arts organizations. 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.