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

March 25, 2026 (Round 1) | June 25, 2026 (Round 2)

Up to $5,000 per project; short-term, project-based funding.

Supports small-scale, community-driven arts projects that activate Worcester neighborhoods and foster connection through creative expression.

Nonprofit status not required; youth and grassroots applicants encouraged.

--- ## Description This grant supports small-scale, resident- and artist-led initiatives that use arts, culture, and creative expression to activate and strengthen Worcester neighborhoods. Designed for projects that address clearly identified community needs, the program emphasizes creativity as a tool for building connection, belonging, and neighborhood identity. Projects should be place-based, rooted in local context, and may be temporary, experimental, or pilot activities that engage neighbors and community members. The program prioritizes accessibility, community-driven approaches, and leadership from those living, working, or creating in Worcester neighborhoods, with a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. --- ## Due Dates - March 25, 2026: Round 1 application deadline (full application due) - June 25, 2026: Round 2 application deadline (full application due) Award notifications: April 17, 2026 (Round 1) | July 27, 2026 (Round 2) All funded projects must be completed and all funds spent by November 30, 2026. --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: **Up to $5,000 per project** - Applicants should request only what is necessary for the proposed activity. - Funding is for project-based expenses; ongoing operating costs and capital expenses are not eligible. --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants include: - Worcester residents - Individual artists and culture organizers - Neighborhood groups or collectives (formal or informal) - Grassroots organizations - Creative practitioners in partnership with a neighborhood - Youth applicants (under 18 must have an adult cosigner; youth must play a leadership role) **Nonprofit status is not required.** Applicants must live in, work in, or demonstrate a strong connection to the Worcester neighborhood where the project will take place. Eligible projects must: - Center arts, culture, and creativity as the primary method of engagement - Respond to a clear, community-identified need - Be free and open to the public - Take place in Worcester neighborhoods - Demonstrate meaningful community engagement - Be achievable within the grant period **Ineligible requests:** Ongoing operating expenses, capital construction, political or religious activities, individual scholarships/tuition, projects benefiting a single business/household, expenses outside the grant period, large festivals/parades/multi-day events. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted online via the [grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=greaterworcester). - First-time applicants must create an organizational account. - Required materials: - Brief project description - Neighborhood(s) involved - Description of the community need - Community engagement plan - Simple project budget - Proposed timeline Applications are intentionally short and use plain language. Reporting requirements are minimal, with only a brief final reflection (photos and narrative) required. For application tips and detailed instructions, see the [Applicant Resources](https://greaterworcester.org/for-non-profits/competitive-grant-opportunities/applicant-resources). --- ## Additional Information - Projects must be completed and all expenses incurred by November 30, 2026. - Awardees receive a simple grant agreement and optional technical assistance. - Prior grant writing experience is not required. - Equity commitment: The program is dedicated to supporting historically under-resourced communities and values lived experience, cultural knowledge, youth leadership, and community trust. --- ## External Links - [Program Page](https://greaterworcester.org/for-non-profits/competitive-grant-opportunities/worcester-neighborhood-arts-and-creativity-grant) - [Full Guidelines (DOCX)](https://stdidgreaterworcesteprod.blob.core.windows.net/greaterworcester/images/Worcester-Neighborhood-Arts-and-Creativity-Grant-Guidelines.docx) - [Grant Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=greaterworcester) - [Applicant Resources](https://greaterworcester.org/for-non-profits/competitive-grant-opportunities/applicant-resources) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |---------------------|---------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|--------------| | Jonathan Cohen | Vice President of Community Impact | [grants@greaterworcester.org](mailto:grants@greaterworcester.org) | 508-755-0980 | | Sarah Shugrue | Director of Grantmaking and Capacity Building | [sshugrue@greaterworcester.org](mailto:sshugrue@greaterworcester.org) | 508-755-0980 |

Worcester Neighborhood Arts and Creativity Grant

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