The Minnesota Council on Foundations presented its first report on the current state of the arts, culture, and humanities in Minnesota. Results of the report are from personal interviews with the states largest grantmakers and nonprofits. The report is based on personal thought and expression rather than hard data.

Some key findings of current operations include:

• Most grantmakers that focus on the arts are private foundations and corporations located in the Twin Cities.
• Most grantmakers have continued the same funding priorities even though government funding has changed within the arts.
• Arts funding decisions take place mostly among staff, giving the final say to boards and trustees.
• Arts funders evaluate and reflect on the organizations and programs they choose to fund.

Some key findings of perceived gaps in funding include:

• Grantmakers view dance as the most poorly funded art in Minnesota .
• Smaller and experimental arts organizations do not receive adequate funding.
• Greater Minnesota arts groups are not given significant funding.
• There is a decline in corporate support within the arts.

Some key critical issues stated within the report include:

• Some grantmakers believe that an emphasis should be placed on funding arts organizations within Greater Minnesota.
• Because of the economic recession, grantmakers feel they need to sellﾝ their boards on the importance of the arts. Similarly, nonprofits have to spend more time and money on educating the community on the importance of the arts.

For More Information Contact:

Minnesota Council on Foundations
Telephone: 612.338.1989
E-mail: [email protected]