CONTRACTS
FOR SERVICES
ABOUT CONTRACTS FOR SERVICES
The Contracts for Services (CFS) Program is Fulton County’s primary funding initiative supporting the creation, presentation, and preservation of arts and cultural programming throughout the county. Administered by the Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture (FCAC), the program invests in artists and organizations that expand opportunities for residents to experience, participate in, and benefit from the arts.
Through CFS, Fulton County supports programs that strengthen communities, celebrate cultural diversity, and contribute to a vibrant arts ecosystem across the county.
Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $50,000, depending on the funding category and scope of services proposed.
The next CFS funding cycle for 2027 is expected to launch in late fall 2026.
Who the Program Supports
The Contracts for Services Program supports Fulton County–based:
Individual artists
Arts and cultural nonprofit organizations
Community-based nonprofit organizations
Public schools, colleges, and universities
Municipalities
Programs funded through CFS are expected to provide public-facing arts and cultural programming that serves Fulton County residents.
What the Program Supports
CFS provides general operating and project-based support for organizations and institutions that produce or present ongoing arts and cultural programming.
Funded programs typically:
Reflect the cultural diversity of Fulton County
Engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds
Strengthen neighborhood vitality and community connection
Contribute to local economic development
Support jobs and professional opportunities within the arts sector
These investments help ensure that arts and cultural opportunities remain accessible throughout Fulton County communities.
How Applications Are Evaluated
When the funding cycle is open, applications are reviewed through a competitive process using the following criteria:
Artistic Merit
Organizational Effectiveness
Accessibility
Fiscal Management
Service to the Community and the Field
Planning
Leadership Capability
Project and Program Clarity
Applications are reviewed by independent advisory panelists representing a broad range of artistic disciplines and professional expertise.
Review and Approval Process
Applications move through a multi-step review process that includes:
FCAC staff review
Fulton County Arts Council review
Allocations Committee review
Final approval by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners
Funding recommendations align with the County’s strategic goal:
“All People’s Lives Are Culturally and Recreationally Enriched.”
Planning for Future Funding
Organizations and artists interested in participating in the next funding cycle are encouraged to:
Review program guidelines and eligibility requirements
Maintain current organizational and compliance documentation
Begin planning programs that serve Fulton County residents
Additional program information and updates are available at www.fultonarts.org.
2025 Contracts for Services Award Recipients
Fulton County Awards $3 Million in Funding to the Arts Nonprofits Community
The CFS program supports arts and cultural activities that provide opportunities for life-long learning and participation in the arts. During its meeting on July 10, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners approved to award $3 million in funding to arts community Arts nonprofits through the Department of Arts & Culture.
Funding ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 is awarded through the Contracts for Services (CFS) program to provide essential funding support for 172 non-profit organizations, public entities, and individual artists. Recipients will provide contracted services including art classes, workshops, master classes, residencies, festivals, exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and activities proposed to occur between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
Workshops and Webinars
Professional Development Series
Brand Positioning: Know Yourself First
Date: April 16th 2026
Virtual - All Classes are from 12-1p.m.
Objective: Help participants gain self-awareness and identify the foundation of their personal brand.
Description: Your brand starts with self-awareness. In this powerful workshop, participants will explore their strengths, passions, and unique value to begin defining their personal brand. Through guided exercises and intentional reflection, you’ll gain clarity on what you’re known for, how you show up, and the impact you want to make. This session helps you build confidence, sharpen your identity, and create the foundation for a brand rooted in purpose and authenticity. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of themselves and the first draft of their personal brand statement.
Brand Positioning: How You Show Up
Date: April 30th 2026
Virtual - All Classes are from 12-1p.m.
Objective: Help participants shape how their brand is communicated and perceived.
Description: Your brand is not just who you are — it’s how people experience you. Brand Positioning, How You Show Up is a transformative workshop designed to help participants define how they present themselves with intention, confidence, and clarity. This session focuses on aligning your strengths, values, and communication style to ensure your personal brand reflects your true identity and goals. Participants will identify their core brand pillars, understand the power of perception, and learn how to communicate their value through a clear and confident personal brand message. Through guided exercises, each participant will develop their personal brand elevator pitch and begin positioning themselves for greater opportunities, visibility, and impact. This workshop equips participants with the tools to show up consistently, authentically, and strategically in every room they enter.
Brand Presentation
Date: April 30th 2026
In-Person - All Classes are from 12-1p.m.
Location: TBD
Must attend both virtual sessions to participate in the in-person presentation
Objective: Solidify their personal brand and create a growth strategy
Description: This culminating session brings your personal brand to life. Brand Presentation + SWOT Analysis is an interactive, in-person workshop where participants will confidently present their personal brand and receive real-time feedback to strengthen their clarity, confidence, and positioning. This experience empowers participants to own their story and communicate their value with purpose. In addition, participants will complete a guided SWOT Analysis to identify their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats. This strategic exercise helps participants understand where they are, where they want to go, and how to intentionally grow their brand moving forward.
Participants will leave with a clear brand message, a defined growth strategy, and the confidence to show up authentically and effectively in professional and personal environments.
If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out at 404-612-5780. We're here to help!
RSVP
RSVP
Volunteer to be a Panelist for Fulton County Arts & Culture
C.F.S. PROGRAM GOALS
Providing cultural access for the diverse citizenry of Fulton County, with a focus on youth, seniors, people with disabilities and underserved populations.
Service as a catalyst for stabilizing arts and cultural organizations throughout Fulton County
Creating an environment that encourages growth and development of arts organizations.
Stimulating neighborhood development and facilitating the with communities throughout Fulton County.
Fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors of Fulton County.
Contributing to the economic well-being of the community, including the ability to attract new business and residents.
MEET THE TEAM
-
Contracts for Services Program Manager
shantras.lakes@fultoncountyga.gov
Shantras Lakes is an experienced public administration professional working in the arts and philanthropy sector. She serves as the Manager for the Contracts for Services Program for Fulton County Government’s Department of Arts & Culture, she has built a reputation for strong advocacy and support of a healthy arts and cultural community.
-
Contracts for Services Program Specialist
tasha.tavaras@fultoncountyga.gov
Tasha Tavaras holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the Savannah College of Art and Design and was an intern with Fulton County Arts & Cultures Contracts for Services Department before becoming the Contracts For Services Program Specialist for Fulton County Arts & Culture.
-
Administrative Coordinator
sharon.maloney@fultoncountyga.gov
Sharon Maloney has been in the administrative professional field for over 15 years, holds an associate degree in business management, and was a contractor with Fulton County Arts & Cultures before becoming their permanent administrator assistant.
view fulton county’s district map
creating access and opportunities for all!
Sign up to be the first to know about our events and initiatives!