Local Cultural Council Program
Local Cultural Council Program supports Massachusetts individuals and organizations with grants for arts, humanities, and science programs that strengthen cultural vitality and benefit local communities.
Funder: Mass Cultural Council
Due Dates: September 1, 2026 (Applications open) | October 15, 2026, 11:59pm ET (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Typical grants: $500–$750, determined locally; FY2027 council allocations total $5,850,000
Summary: Supports arts, humanities, and science programs that benefit Massachusetts communities through locally administered cultural grants.
Key Information: Applicants must reside or be located in Massachusetts and meet their local council’s eligibility requirements.
Description
Mass Cultural Council’s Local Cultural Council (LCC) Program supports cultural life throughout Massachusetts through 329 local and regional councils representing all 351 cities and towns. Administered by 2,500 municipally appointed volunteers, the network supports 7,400 cultural programs annually. Each council makes funding decisions based on its community’s needs and priorities within statewide guidelines.
Supported activities include field trips, lectures, festivals, performances, artist residencies, public art, fellowships, ticket subsidies, scholarships, and operating support. Projects must contribute to community cultural vitality rather than primarily benefit a private individual or group. Virtual and remote programs can qualify, as can ticketed events and fundraisers that provide public benefit. Science activities must focus on cultural, interpretive, or educational expression connecting nature, science, and technology to people’s lives.
