Deadline for applications: October 16, 2025

The Maynard Cultural Council (MCC) 2026 Grant period will open September 2, 2025. We are seeking funding proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities, and science programs. Grant applications are due by October 16, 2025. Organizations, schools, and individuals can apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community.

These grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Maynard — including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures. Grants typically range from $50 to $1500.  

Funds from the MCC have a quantifiably positive impact on the Town’s cultural life: The Spring Art Walk, Jazzfest, and live music at Maynard’s Farmer’s Market are a few of the ways MCC dollars have enlivened experiences for residents and visitors downtown and beyond. Art projects funded by MCC have ranged from copper tree wiring at the Maynard Public Library to print making at ArtSpace Maynard. These and others have afforded local residents the chance to experience the happy personal reward that comes with being creative. Flowers along the Assabet River Trail, theatrical lights for student theatre productions, even Maynard’s new bicyclist sculpture are just some of the ways the MCC has been able to contribute to Maynard’s robust cultural character.

Arts and Culture bring dollars to local communities, too. Concerts, festivals and other public events bring residents and visitors dowtown to patronize local retail and dining spots, which boosts local spending. According to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the economic impact of the cultural economy on the state is $27.9B. In Massachusetts, 130,000 jobs are linked to arts and culture. Communities with vigorous programming in arts and culture also see a corresponding growth in residential property values

“We are grateful to the Massachusetts Cultural Council for making it possible to contribute to the cultural character of the Town of Maynard with these grants,” said Maynard Cultural Council Chair Richard Pepin, “Maynard is a town abundant in creative thinkers and doers, and we are delighted to be able to offer some support to the creative process.”

Questions? Message us here or email [email protected].

Application forms and more information about this Local Cultural Council Program are available online here

Who Can Apply? Individuals, organizations, agencies, schools, and non-profits may apply for grants that support activities in culture, humanities, arts, and sciences publicly benefiting the local community. Projects must take place between January 1, 2026 and be completed by December 31, 2026. All applicants must reside or be located in Massachusetts. 

How do I apply? Applicants must be submitted online via the MCC website, see link above. The process opens September 2, 2025. The deadline for applying is October 17, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. 

What makes a good application? Each year we receive more requests than the funds that are available. The success of your grant may rely on careful planning and thorough preparation. Clearly identify dates, times, and locations. Include all costs in your budget, including in-kind donations (free use of space or donated services). If permits or extra permission are needed, please identify them. If this is a collaborative project, please identify the stakeholders and spell out agreements.