To download program guidelines, click on the "How to Apply" link at the right. 

About the Program

The purpose of the State Service Organization Program is to foster quality and professionalism in support of cultural excellence, access, and inclusion for the benefit of the public.

A state service organization is defined as a not-for-profit organization that provides opportunities to strengthen and advance professionals working in the cultural industry and cultural institutions on a statewide basis. Services, based on the organization’s mission, may include, but are not limited to:

• Ongoing statewide planning and assessment
• Promotion of the constituency including state service organization’s membership
• Dissemination of topical information and information on available resources
• Representation of the constituency served
• Educational, lifelong learning and networking opportunities
• Initiatives in support of the Division’s statewide Strategic Plan

Definition of “statewide”
State service organizations represent the cultural interests of individuals and institutions throughout the state of Florida. They draw participation from these individuals and institutions and provide services that are accessible to all regions of the state.

In order to be eligible for funding, an organization must be designated as a state service organization and provide services that are in keeping with the mission of the organization and the goals and objectives of the State Service Organization Program.

The Florida Arts Council will review and designate based on staff recommendation. An organization, upon designation as a state service organization, will retain this designation for a three-year cycle at which time designation will again be reviewed by Division staff and recommended to the Florida Arts Council. Organizations would be required to submit a board approved mission statement and a board approved long-range strategic plan as part of the designation process as well as documentation of services.

An organization meeting the legal eligibility requirements must also be able to document that the organization conforms to the definition of a state service organization.

Another Resource

Many of Florida’s state service organizations are also members of the Florida Cultural Alliance. For additional information, visit: http://www.flca.net

For a comprehensive list of Florida's State Service Organizations and associations, visit the following link:  http://www.florida-arts.org/resources/list.cfm?label=state.