WORCESTER—Some creative opportunities can easily fly under the radar — and the Access Grant Program at the Jean McDonough Arts Center (JMAC) is one of them.
The Barr Foundation announced it will invest $400,000 over three years to continue the program at JMAC. Implemented through a partnership with the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, the initiative allocates $355,000 to fund grantee projects, with $45,000 covering administrative expenses.
According to the announcement, the investment “will ensure the JMAC continues to flourish as a vibrant hub for diverse artistic expression and cultural equity in the community.” The Greater Worcester Community Foundation will oversee the grant application process, including a committee of community members who will review and select projects for support.
Access Grant funds may cover venue rental, staffing, artist stipends, materials, marketing, and other essential project costs. Preference will be given to projects reflecting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and those promising transformative growth for the creative or organization.
Past recipients include Bodies Moving, Broadway in Worcester, Casita Cultura Latina, Coyote Way X: Expanded Cinema, Crocodile River Music, Don’t Touch My Podcast, Flamenco Worcester, The Hanover Theatre Repertory, Inner Voice Outer Change for Youth, Jewish Theatre Company of Central Massachusetts, JSDDance, Nathan D. Manna, Queer the Scene, studioXpresents, VOICES 21C, and Worcester Writers’ Collective.
Applications opened Wednesday, Oct. 1, for Round 1 (letter of intent) and closes Monday, Dec. 1, 2025. Applicants moving to Round 2 will submit a detailed project narrative by Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, with award notifications expected Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.
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