Orange County to award more than $5.1 million in cultural tourism grants, largest in program history

Orange County announced at the ACT Awards that it will award more than $5,100,000 in cultural tourism grants to local arts and cultural nonprofits, the largest distribution in the program’s 24-year history, Speaker 2 said. The awards are intended to support exhibitions, concerts, series and film festivals in 2026 that generate tourism and bring visitors into Orange County.

The grants are funded through the county’s cultural tourism program and were described by Speaker 5 as supported by the tourist development tax. "It doesn't just support tourism, It fuels inspiration, innovation, and connection," Speaker 5 said, adding the funding "strengthens the cultural heartbeat of our region." Speaker 2 noted the total amount to be awarded and called it a milestone: "This marks the largest dollar amount ever awarded by the county's cultural tourism funding program in its 24 year history."

Speakers representing two recipient organizations described how the grants will be used. Speaker 4 said New Generation Theatrical, a small 501(c)(3), received $55,000 and called the sum "truly a life changing amount of money," saying it will support marketing, payment for performers and staff, and organizational growth. Speaker 3 said their group received $55,000 and said the grant will help expand outreach beyond family audiences to bring more community members to performances.

County officials and presenters emphasized the program’s economic and cultural rationale. Speaker 1 praised local elected leaders' support for arts and culture and said cultural tourists "stay longer" and "spend more," helping local identity and placemaking. The funds are intended to support arts activity throughout the calendar year that can attract visitors to Orange County. There were no formal motions or votes recorded in the transcript.