City of Worcester, MA

WORCESTER, Mass. – The Worcester Arts Council (WAC) is now accepting grant applications for its FY27 funding cycle. The deadline to apply is Oct. 15, 2026.

As part of a statewide network of Local Cultural Councils (LCCs), WAC receives funding through Mass Cultural Council (MCC) annually. For FY27, WAC will once again award thousands of dollars to local arts and cultural programs in Worcester including individuals, nonprofits, associations with an established nonprofit objective, schools, libraries, and other public agencies.

This year, MCC is awarding WAC$244,500 for its grants. The Greater Worcester Community Foundation (GWCF) has also renewed its support for an additional $15,000 toward WAC Fellowship Grants.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of the Mass Cultural Council and Greater Worcester Community Foundation, whose significant investments in Worcester’s creative sector allow us to continue putting resources directly into the hands of our artists, cultural organizations and creative community,” said Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. “When we fund the arts, we invest in the people and ideas that give our city its character, tell our stories, and bring our communities together. Sustained investment in creativity is essential to ensuring Worcester continues to grow as a vibrant arts city where bold ideas can take root and thrive.”

WAC offers two types of grants: Project Grants and Fellowship Grants.

Project Grants: Assist in the development of projects and programs in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences. Applicants must demonstrate a tangible benefit to Worcester citizens. All grant applicants must maintain a residential, commercial or studio address in Worcester County. All WAC-funded projects must occur within Worcester.

Fellowship Grants: Assist individuals in developing their work outside the structure of a specific project or presentation. Artists in any discipline may apply. All Fellowship applicants must maintain a residential, commercial, or studio address in Worcester.

“Supporting artists is essential to a vibrant and life-giving culture,” said Worcester Arts Council Chair Chris Michelotti. “These grants are one of many resources the council provides to our amazing community of artists that bring so much joy to the greater Worcester area. I am proud that the council is filled with passionate people who continue to serve this city by uplifting all the diverse voices currently within it and those to come.”

While all projects within the realm of arts, sciences, and humanities will be considered, based on the feedback received from the Worcester community through its annual Funding Priorities Survey, WAC will give preference to grant applicants and projects that align with the following priorities for FY27:

• Projects that focus on Arts Education & Instruction, Public Art, Musical Performances, and programs for all age groups from children to seniors.
• Projects that elevate the voices and experiences of historically marginalized groups to highlight the current and historical diversity of Worcester. Projects should create opportunities for artists and community members through a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility lens.
• Projects that take place in/or benefit areas of Worcester that are historically underserved.

WAC’s FY27 Grant Guidelines and instructions on how to apply can be found at: Arts & Culture Grants | City of Worcester, MA (worcesterma.gov)

All applications must be submitted online by Oct. 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Late applications will not be accepted. WAC will review all grant applications from November through December 2026. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by late January 2027. There will be a virtual grantee workshop hosted by MCC on Sept. 10, 2026, at 6 p.m. Register here: MCC Registration

WAC will also host a virtual Grant Workshop on Zoom for potential applicants. WAC encourages anyone who may be interested in learning more or applying, especially first-time applicants, to attend. Follow @worcesterartscouncil on Instagram for announcement details.

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