The Mass Cultural Council has awarded $3,375,000 in Creative Experiences grants to support 708 cultural projects across Massachusetts, ranging from festivals and performances to residencies and school-based programs.
The one-year grants, valued at $2,500 or $5,000 each, aim to make arts, humanities, and science programming more accessible and engaging for communities statewide. By funding creative activities directly in neighborhoods and schools, the initiative seeks to elevate local expression, spark public engagement, and enrich cultural life.
The FY26 funding round drew 1,551 applications from nonprofits, schools, municipalities, for-profits, and grassroots groups — highlighting strong public demand for cultural opportunities.
Key Outcomes:
- 66% of grantees are either first-time awardees or organizations that haven’t received funding recently.
- 52% are BIPOC-centered organizations or BIPOC-majority schools.
- 45% are based in priority communities.
- 91% are employing and compensating Massachusetts-based cultural workers.
The Council emphasized that these investments affirm its commitment to cultural equity and community vitality. “Cultural experiences are essential to the well-being of our communities — they inspire, educate, and bring people together,” the agency stated.
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