[Greater Worcester Community Foundation](https://greaterworcester.org)

February 2027 (full application deadline, projected)

Up to $10,000 per festival; one-year support; funds dispersed upon event confirmation.

Supports organizations hosting inclusive, public cultural festivals in Worcester that foster community cohesion and celebrate diversity.

--- ## Description This grant program, a partnership between the Greater Worcester Community Foundation and the City of Worcester, is designed to support the costs of hosting cultural festivals within Worcester. The goal is to activate public spaces, celebrate the city’s diversity, support local artists, and create accessible opportunities for community engagement. Funded festivals should reflect Worcester’s Cultural Plan by encouraging cross-cultural connections and enhancing cultural vibrancy. Events must be free, open to the public, and held in outdoor public spaces. --- ## Due Dates - February 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Grants are up to $10,000 per festival. - Funds are dispersed once the festival is booked and confirmed. - Support is for eligible expenses related to event setup, implementation, permits, licenses, and vendor costs. - Festival must take place by the end of the calendar year in which the grant is awarded. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or fiscally sponsored groups/programs. - Organizations/groups must be based in the City of Worcester and have operated in the community since at least 2020. - Festivals must be hosted within the City of Worcester. - Only expenses directly related to implementing the event are eligible (e.g., city permits, vendor costs). - Events must be free, open to the public, and held in outdoor public spaces. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted through the [Greater Worcester Community Foundation's online grants portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=greaterworcester). - Prepare a detailed budget using the provided [budget template](https://stdidgreaterworcesteprod.blob.core.windows.net/greaterworcester/documents/Festival-Budget-Template_2026-01-20-162448_tkda.xlsx). - Review the [program guidelines](https://stdidgreaterworcesteprod.blob.core.windows.net/greaterworcester/documents/City-of-Worcester-Cultural-Festival-Grant-Program-Guidelines.docx) before applying. - Contact the Foundation for technical assistance or questions about eligibility. --- ## Additional Information - Grant funds come from remaining ARPA resources, emphasizing community impact and cultural inclusivity. - Orientation sessions may be offered; check the program page for announcements. - Collaborators and grantwriters may be added to applications as needed. --- ## External Links - [Program Page (Greater Worcester Community Foundation)](https://greaterworcester.org/for-non-profits/competitive-grant-opportunities/city-of-worcester-cultural-festival-grant-program) - [Online Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=greaterworcester) - [Program Guidelines (DOCX)](https://stdidgreaterworcesteprod.blob.core.windows.net/greaterworcester/documents/City-of-Worcester-Cultural-Festival-Grant-Program-Guidelines.docx) - [Budget Template (XLSX)](https://stdidgreaterworcesteprod.blob.core.windows.net/greaterworcester/documents/Festival-Budget-Template_2026-01-20-162448_tkda.xlsx) - [Contact Page](https://greaterworcester.org/about-us/contact-us) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | |------------------------|---------------------------------------|----------------| | Grants Team | grants@greaterworcester.org | 508-755-0980 | | Foundation Contact Page| [Contact Form](https://greaterworcester.org/about-us/contact-us) | |

City of Worcester Cultural Festival Grant Program

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