Sedona City Council is set to launch a new grant program aimed at supporting local arts and culture organizations, following a recent meeting on June 24, 2025. The council discussed the proposed Arts and Culture Organizations Grant Program, which has a budget allocation of $200,000 for the upcoming fiscal year 2026.

City Manager Annette Spickered presented the program's framework, emphasizing that it is designed for Sedona-based non-profits with an operating income of $500,000 or more that focus on arts and can demonstrate their economic impact on the city through visitor engagement. Notably, organizations receiving funding through this program will not be eligible for other city grants, including the existing small grants program.

The council is expected to finalize eligibility criteria and program details, with plans to advertise for applications soon after approval. The evaluation of applications will be conducted by the Small Grants Program Committee, which will make recommendations to the council for final approval.

If all goes according to plan, the council anticipates reviewing applications by August or September, aligning future grant cycles with the small grants program's spring timeline. This initiative aims to enhance Sedona's cultural landscape while fostering economic growth through the arts.