National Endowment for the Arts

The National Endowment for the Arts provides national recognition and support to significant projects of artistic excellence, thus preserving and enhancing our nation's diverse cultural heritage. The Endowment was created by Congress and established in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government. This public investment in the nation’s cultural life has resulted in both new and classic works of art reaching every corner of America.

The measure of a great nation is not merely its wealth and power but its civilization – most notably the political and artistic ideals it creates, promotes and preserves.

The arts are an essential expression of American freedom. America is the most creative nation in history because it recognizes the freedom of the individual.

The National Endowment for the Arts serves all Americans. It exists to foster, preserve and promote excellence in the arts, to bring art to all Americans and to provide leadership in arts education. The National Endowment for the Arts is the nation’s largest annual funder of the arts – bringing great art to all fifty states,including rural areas and inner cities.

The Arts Endowment has made America a better place to live. Before the establishment of the National Endowment for the Arts in 1965, the arts were limited mostly to a few big cities. The Arts Endowment has helped create the regional theaters, operas, ballet companies, orchestras, museums and other arts that Americans now enjoy. In its 40-year history, the National Endowment for the Arts has awarded more than 120,000 grants that have brought art to Americans in communities large and small. Its regional touring program provides assistance to help bring high-quality performing artists and companies to communities across the country.

The National Endowment for the Arts believes a great nation deserves great art. The Arts Endowment has helped the arts become accessible to more Americans, which in turn has increased public participation in the arts. The agency also supports cultural activities that strengthen our economy. Nationally, the nonprofit arts contribute an estimated $37 billion to the economy every year.

Through many efforts, the National Endowment for the Arts is fulfilling its vision to create a nation in which artistic excellence is celebrated, supported, and available to all.