ArtsFund Campaign Grows 24%, Welcomes 75 New Donors, and Demonstrates Growing Confidence in The ACGG’s Vision
The Greater Greensboro community invested more than half a million dollars in the future of creativity this year, contributing $554,798.71 to The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro’s 2025–2026 ArtsFund campaign. The total represents a 24% increase over the previous fiscal year.
The campaign generated 680 gifts from 439 donors, including 75 first-time supporters whose combined investment exceeded $41,700. Together, these investments reflect growing confidence in The ACGG’s work to strengthen Guilford County’s creative ecosystem through strategic grantmaking, professional development, partnerships, and leadership.
“This campaign isn’t simply about reaching a fundraising goal,” said Laura Way, President and CEO of The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro. “It’s about a community choosing to invest in creativity as part of its future. Welcoming 75 new supporters while seeing longtime donors deepen their investment tells us people believe in where we’re headed and want to be part of building that future.”
Support came from across the community through annual giving, recurring monthly donors, peer-to-peer gatherings, foundation grants, leadership gifts, and community events. Together, these investments will help The ACGG continue expanding opportunities for artists and nonprofit organizations while advancing its Vision 2030 strategy for a stronger, more connected, and more sustainable creative ecosystem.
The campaign was co-chaired by Martha and Clifford Thompson, whose volunteer leadership inspired broad community participation throughout the year.
“Martha and Clifford exemplify what community leadership looks like,” Way said. “Their generosity, optimism, and willingness to invite others into this work helped create momentum that extended throughout the campaign.”
According to the most recent Arts & Economic Prosperity study conducted by Americans for the Arts, the Guilford County nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $240.3 million in economic activity annually. The sector generates $36.6 million in tax revenue to local, state, and federal governments while supporting 4,335 jobs.
Founded in 1960, The Arts Council of Greater Greensboro serves as Guilford County’s designated partner of the North Carolina Arts Council. The ACGG invests in artists, nonprofit organizations, creative entrepreneurs, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen communities, fuel economic opportunity, and enrich quality of life throughout Greater Greensboro and Guilford County.
