By Sarah Baker - The Daily News -

ArtsMemphis is using a $750,000, three-year lead gift from The Assisi Foundation of Memphis Inc. to launch a new initiative to support the arts outreach programming of museums, performing arts companies, visual arts centers and other arts groups in Shelby County.

Over the first half of 2012, ArtsMemphis will convene arts groups and undergo a research process through the University of Memphis to better refine the objectives and areas for impact of the program.

Grant awards will be made to eligible groups starting in July 2012. By working together, arts organizations across the county will increase collaboration among groups, reduce barriers for audiences and expand the work of arts education in the community.

The announcement comes after an 18-month information-gathering process among ArtsMemphis, The Assisi Foundation of Memphis, Memphis City Schools, Shelby County Schools and arts educators

In fiscal year 2011, ArtsMemphis awarded $2.8 million to the Memphis arts community through 280 grants.