Z-arts is delighted to be one of 28 organisations in Manchester receiving the new Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s (GMCA) Culture and Social Impact Fund. The funding will run over two years from April 2018.
The GMCA fund invests in organisations committed to providing excellent and positive cultural experiences or work that has significant impact across Manchester.
The GMCA funding will support Z-arts’ access programme and our engagement work across Greater Manchester, most notably through schools, five Big Imaginations venues and the wider Greater Manchester Family Arts Network.
Chief Executive and Artistic Director of Z-arts Liz O’Neill says “It seems like there was never a more urgent time to invest in the talent and creativity of our young people. It’s heartening that GMCA recognise this, prioritising the creative development of children and young people, and Z-arts are absolutely delighted to be joining the GMCA portfolio at this time”
Linda Thomas, GMCA lead for culture, arts and leisure, says “It is fair and proper that projects across Greater Manchester are recognised. There really are some wonderful organisations out there and we are very pleased to be able to support them.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham adds “Our creative industry in Greater Manchester is thriving, contributing £1.46 billion to our economy and continuing to grow. We must support this growth and make pathways to creative careers accessible to everyone by supporting the dedicated people and businesses that are using their talent and entrepreneurship to build our local economy.”
This news comes as Z-arts is also celebrating its recently awarded National Portfolio Organisation status by Arts Council England and its continued investment from Manchester City Council.
As a registered charity, the funding from GMCA, Arts Council England and Manchester City Council ensures that Z-arts can continue to reach out to those in the community and engage them in the arts. Putting children and families at the heart of the organisation, Z-arts’ mission is to provide a welcoming, vibrant, inclusive and fun environment for children and families.