As with all funds invested through the Arts Council's process, grants are awarded on the basis of artistry, strong community impact, fiscal integrity, public access, and broad outreach to every corner of the state. Experts from around the country review the applications and make recommendations to the Arts Council. The Arts Council reviews the recommendations and makes the final determination about the best use of state funds. All awards are monitored for accountability. As Governor Whitman stated in last year's budget signing, funding projects through the Council's process ensures fairness and accountability and is in the best long-term interest of the arts in New Jersey.
Many reports show that the arts have a direct and substantial impact on New Jersey's economy.
This includes benefits to restaurants, shops, and service industries. In addition, the presence of a strong arts community is a key component in our quality of life and can play an important role in decisions by corporations and families about where to locate. As can be seen in the example of the City of New Brunswick, which has a vital arts district, the arts can act as the cornerstone of an urban renaissance.