We believe that artists contribute immeasurably to the quality of life and the cultural and economic vitality of our state. Creativity is a key economic driver, and artists have played a pivotal role in the recent revitalization of towns like Bellows Falls, Brandon and Vergennes. Clearly, Vermont's working artists help stimulate the growth of creative sectors and build sustainable communities across the state. 

For more than 40 years the Council has supported artists with programs that include:

• GRANTS: Through our grant programs, we foster classical, traditional, and emerging forms of artistic expression, fund the creation and presentation of high quality work, and aim to make the arts accessible to Vermonters of all economic backgrounds. Visit our Grants section to apply for a grant.
   
• COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS: By forging innovative partnerships between the public and private sectors that encourage dialogue with artists - projects like the Danville Transportation project and the Art In State Buildings program - we aim to highlight the role the arts can play in build regional prosperity, infusing local communities with vitality and personal identity. Visit our Programs/Initiatives section to learn more.
   
• TECHNICAL RESOURCES: We offer professional development opportunities and training workshops to help artists develop and manage their careers, and we help presenters locate artists through our Online Arts Directory and juried artist review.  We also work with other state agencies like the Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing, the Agency of Transportation, and the Agency of Commerce & Community Development to create e-commerce opportunities and free technical resources through tools like the Vermont Arts Calendar. 
   
• ARTS EDUCATION: We support arts initiatives in schools that provide employment opportunities for Vermont’s artists and enrichment activities for children, and projects that foster creative thinking at all life stages. Visit our Arts Education section to learn more.
   
• AWARDS: We believe artists should be saluted for their contributions to the quality of life in Vermont and each year the Council recognizes outstanding individual and organizational contributions to the arts in Vermont through a variety of awards. Visit our Awards section to learn more.
   
• ADVOCACY: The Council acts as the state's foremost arts advocate to sustain (and increase!) funding for the arts and promote public policy that recognizes and supports the vital contribution the arts make to our culture, our schools and our communities. Visit our Advocacy section to learn more.