ASC, a local arts agency based in Charlotte, NC, recently announced the first recipients of its newly created Cultural Vision Grant program. ASC announced the new grant in August 2015 in response to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community’s interest in arts, science, history, and heritage programming, and a desire to experience more community-focused and innovative cultural programs.

Cultural Vision Grants provide funds of up to $10,000 for creative individuals and nonprofit groups to pursue projects that:

• Build community by: Connecting individuals across points of difference to increase understanding, acceptance and positive regard between communities; and/or nurturing, celebrating and supporting the authentic cultures and creative expression of specific neighborhoods; or
• Increase relevance and innovation by: Activating nontraditional performance or exhibition spaces close to where people live; and/or providing groundbreaking and participatory experiences that reflect the changing communities in which we live.

More than 40 arts and cultural groups applied for the first round of Cultural Vision Grant funding, and 17 recipients were selected to receive a combined $102,420 in funding for cultural projects. All projects are scheduled to begin by June 30, 2017, and conclude before June 30, 2018.

The grants support programs like the Cornelius Cultural Arts Group's Tawba Walk, a community arts festival that celebrates the culture and character of historic downtown Cornelius by bringing together local artists, businesses, and community residents; and “Eat the Runt,” a play from Donna Scott Productions that challenges gender and race differences by utilizing a diverse cast and allowing the audience to cast the show each night. View the full list of ASC's Cultural Vision Grant recipients.