WORCESTER—The Worcester Arts Council (WAC) opened applications for its FY26 grant cycle, with $246,500 available to support local arts and cultural programming. The deadline to apply is Oct. 16.
As part of a statewide network of Local Cultural Councils, WAC receives annual funding through the Mass Cultural Council. This year, the state agency awarded Worcester $236,500 for distribution. The Greater Worcester Community Foundation renewed its support as well, contributing an additional $10,000 toward WAC Fellowship Grants.
“At a time when arts and humanities funding faces freezes and cutbacks at the national level, we are deeply grateful that our state and local partners remain steadfast in their commitment to Worcester’s cultural life,” said Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. “The Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation continue to champion the arts, providing crucial support that uplifts creative voices, strengthens community connections and ensures our city remains a vibrant hub of innovation, diversity and inclusivity.”
WAC offers two types of grants. Project grants support individuals and organizations from Worcester County in developing projects within the city that are innovative, collaborative, provide a public benefit, reach underserved populations, and demonstrate creative excellence. Fellowship grants, meanwhile, provide support directly to Worcester artists of all trades, allowing them to develop and explore their work outside the structure of a specific project.
“The Worcester Arts Council is thrilled to launch our FY26 grant cycle, and we’re eager to see the incredible projects and creative visions our community will bring to life,” said WAC Chair Chris Michelotti. “This year’s funding supports WAC’s commitment to nurturing Worcester’s vibrant cultural landscape. We believe that every idea, big or small, has the power to transform our city. Whether you’re an artist, an educator, or a cultural organization, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact and help shape the arts in Worcester.”
While all projects within the arts, sciences and humanities are considered, WAC has identified several funding priorities for the coming year. Based on feedback from its annual community survey, the council is giving preference to projects that focus on arts education and instruction, public art and musical performances, as well as programs that serve participants across age groups, from children to seniors.
WAC is also emphasizing support for projects that elevate the voices and experiences of historically marginalized communities, highlighting Worcester’s diversity through a lens of equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Another priority is reaching parts of the city that have historically been underserved by cultural programming.
Applications must be submitted online by Oct. 16 at 11:59 p.m. That’s one minute before the clock strikes midnight. Late submissions? Forget it. Not accepted. WAC reviews applications from November through December, with funding decisions announced by late January 2026.
The Mass Cultural Council hosts a virtual grantee workshop on Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. and WAC holds its own Zoom-based grant workshop for prospective applicants later this fall. Both agencies encourage first-time applicants to attend. Details will be posted on WAC’s Instagram, @worcesterartscouncil.
More information and grant guidelines are available at: Arts & Culture Grants | City of Worcester, MA.
