City of New Orleans, LA
09/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/27/2024 15:22
New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund Shares Achievements
September 27, 2024 | From City of New Orleans
New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund Shares Achievements
The New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF) is proud to highlight its unwavering commitment to the city's vibrant community through one of its core values: impact. By empowering local cultural and artistic endeavors through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and grant programs, NOTCF continues to drive tourism and sustain the unique heritage of New Orleans.
Since its inception in May 2021, NOTCF has set a new benchmark for community
support. In just over three years, it has awarded over $13.7 million in grants, including over 1,500 individual awards. These investments have supported local festivals, nurtured artistic talent and promoted cultural innovation.
Supporting Local Festivals: $3.6 Million in Sponsorships and Counting
Since 2021, NOTCF has invested over $3.6 million in sponsorships for local festivals,
creating long-term economic benefits for the city. These festivals, including renowned events like French Quarter Fest, Jazz Fest, Satchmo Fest, Fried Chicken Festival, Bayou Classic, and the Essence Festival of Culture, have generated an impressive $1.2 billion economic impact for New Orleans and Louisiana.
By helping organizers bolster their marketing efforts, NOTCF has helped attract more visitors to the city, translating into increased hotel stays and business for local vendors.
Empowering Local Vendors: The NOTCF Merchant Marketplace
As part of its commitment to supporting cultural artisans, NOTCF partnered with the National Fried Chicken Festival to create the NOTCF Merchant Marketplace, a
dedicated space for vendors selling non-food cultural products. This innovative initiative covers all vendor fees and operational costs, such as tents and access to electricity, ensuring a seamless experience for 20 local vendors.
In its second year, the marketplace achieved remarkable success, with vendors reporting combined revenues exceeding $40,000 during the two-day festival. This initiative highlights NOTCF's dedication to fostering local entrepreneurship and creating meaningful economic opportunities for community members.
Championing Youth and Cultural Arts: Over $1.9 Million in Youth Programming
Grants
Beyond festivals and economic impact, NOTCF has invested heavily in youth
programming, awarding $1.9 million to initiatives that inspire and empower future
generations. Key beneficiaries include STEM programs like STEM NOLA and local
FIRST Robotics Competition teams, and creative initiatives such as Make Music
NOLA, Be Loud Studios, Coats for Kids, and Eternal Seeds.
In 2024, NOTCF committed up to $10,000 each to sixty schools in the NOLA Public and Archdiocesan school systems, ensuring robust support for cultural arts programming that will impact countless students and encourage the continuation of New Orleans' cultural legacy.
Expanding Access: The Golden Age Pilot Program
In 2024, NOTCF launched the Golden Age Pilot Program, a new initiative to assist
senior cultural artists in navigating the grant application process. This program removes barriers and fosters inclusivity by simplifying access to mini grants. With this initiative, NOTCF continues its mission to elevate artists of all generations and sustain the artistic richness that defines the city.
Looking Ahead: NOTCF's Vision for the Future
The impact of NOTCF's work is far-reaching and multifaceted, driving economic
growth, fostering community development, and preserving the cultural identity of New Orleans. In 2024 alone, NOTCF awarded $3.2 million across more than 260 grants, ensuring its commitment to empowering local artists, cultural bearers, and festival organizers.
About the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF)
As NOTCF moves forward, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of uplifting New Orleans' cultural landscape and creating a lasting positive impact on the community. By supporting local festivals, artists, youth programs, and cultural initiatives, NOTCF is shaping a brighter and more prosperous future for all.