Name of Cultural Fund Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund Year Authorized 1998 View Enabling Legislation Notes about the Status of the Fund Though the Cultural Trust was authorized in 1998, it did not begin receiving funds until 2005. There are no restrictions on types of grants awarded with Trust funds. Purpose of Fund The Trust works to "preserve, promote and enhance that unique cultural heritage for the citizens of the state and the nation and for future generations to understand and appreciate the heritage that makes Wyoming unique among the United States" by coordinating and distributing public and private donations. Total Funding Goal No stated funding goal Funding Sources State legislature: in 2005 the legislature deposited $10 million into the Trust, and has approved at least $1 million each year since. Private funding is not allowed. Special Taxes or Legislation None Current Principal Amount $13-$15 million Financial Management The treasurer's office manages the principal. Interest earned is returned on a quarterly basis into the Trust, building each year to about $250,000. How Funds Will Be Distributed Grants are awarded from the interest earned on the principal. The grant process is overseen by the Trust's five-member board, made up of the Division of Cultural Resources administrator and four governor appointees (two nominated by State Parks and Cultural Resources, two nominated by the state arts agency). The board makes decisions regarding the expenditure of funds and matching requirements. State Arts Agency Role The state arts agency reviews and recommends grant applications, and consults with the Trust board upon request. Partners State Museum, Humanities Council, and Historic Preservation office. These agencies make grant recommendations to the Trust board, but have no direct control over funding. Other Notes and Comments This is the second cultural trust for Wyoming. In 1991, the Wyoming Arts Endowment Fund was started with a National Endowment for the Arts grant of $500,000 and matching funds from the state. Matching grants were awarded to 36 arts organizations to begin or increase their endowment funds. This trust is no longer active. Many thanks to Wyoming Arts Council Manager Rita Basom for providing this information. Updated May 2011 by Elizabeth Bentley-Smith