Cultural councils in Holden, Paxton, and Rutland are accepting proposals from individuals, schools, and organizations for community-based arts, humanities, and science programs for 2026. Deadline for applying for a grant is noon on October 16.

The three cultural councils are part of the Mass Cultural Council (MCC), a state agency that allocates funds to all 351 municipalities in the Commonwealth. The Local Cultural Council Program is the nation’s largest grassroots cultural funding network and supports thousands of community-oriented projects every year. 

Local projects that have been funded in the past include live music, exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, performances, craft workshops, and lectures.

All applications must be submitted online through the MCC portal. The agency sends completed packets to each local council in November that review the applications and make funding decisions by the end of the year. 

“An effort has always been made to attempt equality in service to all ages, from toddlers to the elderly, with added attention given so that those with disabilities may also enjoy the programs,” explained Kristin Steinmetz, a member of the Paxton Cultural Council.

“Our council is committed to supporting projects that reflect the diverse cultural, educational, and artistic interests of our community,” said Jescah Gannon, chair of the Rutland Cultural Council. “Each year, we look forward to reviewing applications that bring new ideas and opportunities for engagement to Rutland residents, whether through the arts, humanities, or interpretive sciences.”

“We fund projects that bring people together, so people are socializing with each other without technology” explained Ana Gregory of the Holden Cultural Council. She points to the marionette performance at the Gale Free Library, the free Sunday night concerts at the town bandstand, and craft workshops at the senior center.

“We are so lucky to have the HCC supporting our summer program,” said Kevin McDonough, head of youth services at Holden’s Gale Free Library. “We had so many wonderful acts we would never be able to present on our own. I am so appreciative of their support of arts in our community.”

Gregory encourages residents who have an idea but have never applied for a grant to send in their applications. “We would like to hear from local artists, musicians, craftspeople and teachers this year,” she said. “In the past we have also supported a science program at Mayo Elementary and a spring musical at the town’s middle school.”

Each town is awarded its own budget that is based on population size. This year Paxton’s Cultural Council will be given approximately $6,800, Holden will receive about $13,400, and Rutland will receive about $8,900.

For local guidelines, access to the grant application, and more information on the process, visit MCC’s website at massculturalcouncil.org.

The HCC is looking for new members. If you are interested, please contact Ana Gregory at [email protected]. No experience necessary.