The language in the 1960 legislation establishing the New York State Council on the Arts is both telling and aspirational. The agency was established
"… to insure that the role of the arts …will continue to grow and will play an ever more significant part in…maintaining the paramount position of the this state in the nation and in the world as a cultural center…"
For more than 50 years, NYSCA's inspired efforts attempted to address New York State's rapidly growing public demand arts and culture.
In 2018, the 17% drop in NYSCA's budget to $41,639,000, a distinct decrease in allocation from two decades prior, sparked intense analysis and support of statewide investment in the arts.
This year, thanks in part to the focused, diligent advocacy of ArtsNYS, passionate partners like New Yorkers for Culture and Arts, and the empowered voices of the community, NYSCA announced a $110 Million dollar budget allocation for FY24, as well as $90 Million for grantmaking directed toward organizations and artists in the state's 62 counties!
As we beam at the benefits of tireless communal action, we remain aware of the challenges facing us on this shared path toward equity and accessibility. With mission in mind, ArtsNYS continues to work with NYSCA to assess, target, and meet the needs of our community members.
The Budget Process
As a state agency, NYSCA’s is included in New York State’s annual budget. (NYSCA also receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, currently approximately $40,900).
New York State operates on an April-March fiscal year, and by state law, the budget must be adopted by April 1st.
The Governor releases a proposed budget early in the year, generally in January. Legislators have an opportunity to amend the budget before bringing it to a vote.
Governor Hochul chaired the statewide Regional Economic Development Councils that have transformed the state’s economy by building upon regional strengths through long-term strategic plans.