BEMIDJI — The Bemidji Area Arts Endowment, a component fund of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, has awarded $22,000 in grant funding to support a diverse array of arts, music and cultural initiatives across Bemidji and surrounding communities. The Bemidji Area Arts Endowment supports arts and music education, public art, performances, cultural events and creative projects that enrich communities across the greater Bemidji area. The Bemidji Area Arts Endowment will host its annual fundraising event on Oct. 24 at The Loft in downtown Bemidji. To support local arts and help grow the endowment, visit nwmf.org, click "Give Now," and select Bemidji Area Arts Endowment or click on Bemidji Area Arts Endowment. For more information about the Bemidji Area Arts Endowment, future grant opportunities, or ways to become involved, contact Darco at terrid@nwmf.org.