Maryland Citizens for the Arts

Working to Make 10% a Reality
When it comes to the nonprofit arts industry, a little stability goes a long way. And, achieving that stability - along with greater public access to the arts - is what the ten percent for the arts funding philosophy is all about.

Arts organizations rely on a mix of public and private support to supplement earned revenue and fund their operations. Without stable, outside support to fill the earnings gap, access to cultural programming would be relegated to the "elite." To prevent that from happening, Maryland's elected officials have worked with Maryland Citizens for the Arts for over a decade to keep state funding moving towards the 10% goal of funding up to ten percent of qualified arts organizations' operating budgets. The state-adopted goal was a driving factor in the 1994 passage of Maryland's law protecting the Maryland State Arts Council's budget from disproportionate reductions by the Executive branch; it is cited in the law's preamble.

The 8,9,10% Plus for the Arts Campaign
In 1999, the 10% funding platform became the centerpiece of an MCA campaign to raise the maximum grant award from 8% to 9% and ultimately 10% with funding increases phased in over a three-year period. At the end of the campaign's first two years in 2001, increases totaling nearly $4 million had successfully raised the grant ceiling from 7.2% to 9%. Along with increasing grants to arts organizations, MCA's campaign generated more funds for every county arts council, as well as the Artists-in-Education program of the Maryland State Arts Council.

> Read the testimony Documenting Community Benefits Go

> Read Top Business Leaders' 2001 endorsment of 10% Go

The positive impact of the 8,9,10% Plus for the Arts campaign was immediately felt. From increased outreach and arts education programs to improved opportunities for professional development and upgraded facilities, communities from every corner of the state benefited.

In 2002, the campaign took a back seat to growing budget concerns and the last installment was not included in the budget submitted to the General Assembly. Nevertheless, the high-profile campaign for 10% garnered significant legislative and private support. MCA advocacy programs will carry on the 10% commitment to organizational stability and advancement for the arts.