The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) champions community and creativity by preserving and advancing all facets of the cultural heritage that makes New York State an exceptional place to live, work and visit. These aims are primarily achieved through the agency's grant-making activity. Annually, the agency awards $41 Million to more than 1,200 organizations statewide. The projects, artists and organizations NYSCA supports reflect the richness and diversity of the State's citizens and visitors. From New York City's landmarks to traditional artisans in the North Country, from international dance companies to teaching artists in inner-city schools, the impact of the agency's funding can be seen in all of the State's 62 counties. Annually, NYSCA's funding helps to engage new audiences, introduce children to the arts, drive artistic excellence and innovation, build organizational capacity and support our State's pillar organizations.Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller and the New York State Legislature in 1960, NYSCA is an agency of the Executive Branch of the New York State Government. For more information on NYSCA, please visit: www.arts.ny.gov