Building for the Arts (BFA)

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“The conservation and development of the State’s artistic resources are essential to the social, educational, and economic growth of the State of Washington.” (RCW 43.46.005)

Mt. Baker Theatre, Bellingham

Building for the Arts (BFA) was created by the Legislature in 1991 (RCW 43.63A.750) and awards grants to 501(c) (3) nonprofit performing arts, art museum, and cultural organizations. The grants pay up to 20 percent of eligible capital costs for acquisition, construction, and/or major renovation of capital facilities.

The grants are funded by the sale of state bonds (no federal funds involved). Projects are selected through a competitive grant application process conducted every two years by the Department of Commerce. The BFA Advisory Committeee evaluates and ranks the project applications. The Department then forwards the list of recommended projects to the Governor for consideration in the upcoming Capital Budget.

Ranking criteria include:

· Ability to complete the project expediently

· Organizational capacity to run the facility effectively

· Community need

· Availability of other funding sources

The state’s investment in these local projects provide:

· Temporary construction jobs

· Permanent arts-related jobs

· Improve quality of life for residents

The next grant cycle will begin Spring 2012.

BFA Program Contact Information:

Name: Beth Prihoda