The General Operating Support Program is a grant initiative funded by the County of Onondaga and administered by CNY Arts. This program aims to provide financial assistance for arts and cultural projects, programs, and services that benefit both residents and visitors of Onondaga County. The program acknowledges the significant role that the arts play in the local economy and in enhancing the quality of life in the region. Historically, Onondaga County has supported various mid-sized arts organizations and larger cultural institutions through this funding.

The primary purpose of the General Operating Support Program is to invest in organizations' core missions and ongoing activities. This support is intended to recognize and reward exemplary practices in administration, finance, programming, and other organizational functions. Grants are awarded annually, reflecting the county's commitment to sustaining the arts as a vital component of community life.

Funding through this program is available to organizations categorized into three tiers based on their size and operational history. Tier One organizations are cultural institutions with an annual budget of $800,000 or more, established for at least ten years, and meeting specific governance and operational criteria. Tier Two organizations are midsize agencies with annual budgets between $250,000 and $799,999, established for at least five years. Tier Three organizations are smaller or newer agencies with budgets ranging from $25,000 to $249,999 and must have been established for at least three years.

To be eligible for the grant, organizations must demonstrate that arts and culture are integral to their mission and activities. They must have a principal office in Onondaga County, conduct most of their activities in New York State, and primarily benefit local residents. Additionally, applicants must be designated as 501(c)(3) organizations, have the capacity to report on financial status and attendance, and maintain a non-discrimination policy. Organizations that meet the criteria for Tier One or Two but have not been historically funded by Onondaga County may also apply under Tier Three.

The application process requires organizations to submit specific documentation and respond to application questions that assess their qualifications and operational capacity. Evaluation criteria will focus on the organization's financial health, governance structure, and the impact of their programs on the community. The project period for funded activities will run from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

The deadline for submitting applications for the General Operating Support Program is October 18, 2024. Interested organizations are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and prepare their applications in advance to ensure compliance with all requirements. For further information, applicants can contact Benjamin Verdi at CNY Arts via email or phone.