From the Research Team

FY2026 State Arts Agency Revenues

NASAA’s newly released Fiscal Year 2026 State Arts Agency Revenues report presents the funding landscape across state and jurisdictional arts agencies nationwide. Legislative appropriations totaled $646 million in FY2026, about a 6% decrease from the previous year—a shift that reflects budgetary adjustments in several large-budget states. Nevertheless, there is considerable state level variation in arts investment.

Despite the decrease in total legislative appropriations, more than half of state arts agencies secured budget increases, with a median growth of 6.6% among those that increased funding. While wide variation defines the current landscape, overall appropriations remain stronger than prepandemic levels, affirming continued public investment in the arts.

The FY2026 State Arts Agency Revenues report features detailed national and state level data presented in accessible tables and visualizations. Readers can explore regional patterns, per capita appropriations and multiyear trends through NASAA’s interactive dashboards. A companion press release distills key findings for quick reference.

NASAA stands ready to support members with customized analyses, including per capita rankings, historical comparisons and tailored funding narratives. For data specific to your state or region, contact NASAA Research Director Mohja Rhoads.

Beyond this report, NASAA’s website houses a collection of research tools and advocacy resources designed to help state arts agencies and their partners build compelling, evidence based cases for arts funding. Follow NASAA on Facebook and X to stay connected with the latest research and advocacy insights.