A total of 71 arts organisations across Wales will share more than £24.25m in 2011-12 as part of a new funding strategy revealed by the Arts Council of Wales (ACW).

It follows the announcement that ACW will see its programme funding cut by 4 per cent in the coming three years, while its running costs will be reduced by 12 per cent. Five groups have been named as regularly funded organisations (RFO) for the first time as part of an overhaul of the council's RFO portfolio.

NoFit State; Sinfonia Cymru; Theatr Ffynnon; Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias; and Independent Ballet Wales are the five new RFOs. Additional funding will be provided for community and performing dance artists to perform their work, as well as groups that aim to inspire and engage more people.

However, the new investment framework remains subject to confirmation in February, when the Welsh Assembly Government publishes its draft budget. ACW chair Dai Smith said: "No-one thrives in a climate of uncertainty, and the arts are no different. We've had to take our share of public sector cuts.

"But as a result of the strategy we've announced, most organisations will see their funding increase, and in some cases significantly so."