Local Cultural Council Program
The Local Cultural Council Program from Mass Cultural Council funds community-based arts, humanities, and science projects to promote public benefit and engagement in Massachusetts.
Funder: Mass Cultural Council
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (statewide deadline; submit online by 11:59pm ET)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards $250–$750 per project; minimum $250; varies by local council. Total annual statewide allocation ~$5.7M.
Summary: Supports arts, humanities, and science projects that provide public benefit in Massachusetts communities via local cultural councils.
Key Information: Applicants must be based in Massachusetts; grants are usually reimbursement-based or direct; local priorities and requirements may apply.
Description
The Local Cultural Council Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the U.S., administered by the Mass Cultural Council. Each year, it empowers 329 municipally appointed local councils to distribute state funds in support of thousands of cultural activities across all Massachusetts cities and towns. Grants support a wide range of projects in the arts, humanities, and sciences—including festivals, performances, field trips, public art, and educational programming—tailored to the needs and priorities of each local community.
