Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga will hold workshops on Sept. 5 and 6 to aid groups interested in applying to the new Community Cultural Connection grant program.

The program was created as part of Imagine Chattanooga 20/20, the regional cultural plan developed as a result of the input of more than 400 members of the community, and is designed to make arts and culture more accessible to underserved communities in Hamilton County, according to a news release.

Almost any group can apply and the funds can be used for all types of culture offerings, including dance, folk art, literature, media, music, theater and the visual arts. Community organizations, government entities, neighborhood associations, ethnic and cultural organizations, emerging arts organizations and faith-based organizations in Hamilton County are all eligible to apply.

The program is designed to bring arts to communities outside of the mainstream arts communities, according to Rodney Van Valkenburg, director of grant/initiatives for Allied Arts.

"The important thing is that while it is very open, the groups need to understand that they must supply volunteer supprt if it is an event or bring something to the project to make sure it is successful. They can't expect Allied Arts to facilitate and fund the entire project."

The first workshop will be held at 9 a.m. at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M.L. King Blvd. The meeting on Sept. 6 will be held at 5 p.m. at the Allied Arts offices at 406 Frazier Ave. The deadline to apply is Oct. 15.

Grants will be funded at a minimum of $1,000 and up to $6,000.