ArtsMatch Offers Local Arts Projects Opportunity To Double Their Funds Raised

Fund for the Arts is offering 15 local arts projects the unique and unparalleled opportunity to double their fundraising through its ArtsMatch crowdfunding program. The program, which kicks off Thursday, March 29, and runs until May 31, 2018, provides the opportunity for cultural groups to increase project fundraising through the ArtsMatch platform, wherein the selected groups can reach new audiences and received dollar-for-dollar matching funds for the amount they raise. Community members are invited to explore www.fundforthearts.org/artsmatch and choose projects to support.

This is the fourth ArtsMatch cycle. Projects were chosen by a Fund for the Arts selection committee, based on how they align with this cycle's thematic funding priorities. Each cycle of ArtsMatch has central funding priorities, which are selected by the community sponsors for that particular cycle. LG&E and KU Energy LLC will support projects that drive Imagine Greater Louisville 2020, a plan that was created from the community's vision for arts and culture in Louisville. The Jennifer Lawrence Arts Fund at Fund for the Arts will support youth and family engagement projects.

"The ArtsMatch program and generosity of our sponsors allows us to empower and enable crucial arts-based projects making an impact on the Greater Louisville community," said Christen Boone, president and CEO of Fund for the Arts. "This fundraising platform is a singular opportunity for projects to double their fundraising and for donors to support projects they care about and make a difference in Louisville in a personal way."

"The arts are vital to strengthening Kentucky's culture and identity, and championing the arts is essential to furthering our region's success," said Paul W. Thompson, chairman, CEO and president of LG&E and KU. "LG&E and KU are proud to support ArtsMatch's unique, innovative fundraising platform and help provide these dynamic arts projects the backing they need to continue improving our community."

"From Acting Against to Cancer to YouthBuild, there are so many incredible organizations that support youth and families in our region," said Meredith Lawrence, Director of the Jennifer Lawrence Arts Fund. "We're proud to support arts projects that will bring creativity and compassion into the lives of children and their families."

Unlike public crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe, programs selected as part of ArtsMatch receive dollar-for-dollar matching funds up to $10,000 from the program sponsors. In total, $85,000 is available in matching funds.

To make a donation to this cycle of ArtsMatch, please visit www.fundforthearts.org/ArtsMatch.