Worcester Arts Council
The mission of the Worcester Arts Council (WAC) is to promote excellence, access, education and diversity in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences to improve the quality of life for Worcester residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our city.
WAC accepts grant applications on an annual basis between September 1st and October 15th. Applicants are notified of the Council’s funding decisions in January of the following year. Grants are awarded to support arts, humanities and interpretive sciences, visual artists, performing artists, science educators, historians and other humanists, as well as community, civic groups, social service organizations, schools, neighborhood centers, and youth, senior and family associations.
Contact
Fabian Barracks
[email protected]
508-799-1400
http://www.worcesterma.gov/cultural-development/worcester-arts-council
Address
455 Main Street Room 409
Worcester, MA 01608-1800
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Application Information
FY27 Allocation
$244,500
FY27 Local Priorities
Grant guidelines for WAC’s FY27 grant season can be found on the City of Worcester website by visiting https://www.worcesterma.gov/cultural-development/grants
FY27 Local Guidelines
While all projects in the arts, humanities, and sciences will be considered, based on community input gathered in 2025, WAC will give preference to grant applications that align with the following Funding Priorities for FY27:
Project Categories | Projects that focus on Arts Education & Instruction, Public Art, Musical Performances, and programs for all age groups from children to seniors.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Access (DEIA) | Projects that elevate the voices and experiences of historically marginalized groups to highlight the current and historical diversity of Worcester. Projects should create opportunities for artists and community members through a DEIA lens.
Locations | Projects that take place in or benefit areas of Worcester that are historically underserved.
How Grant Recipients Are Paid
Direct Grants
FY27 Funding List
A grant list will be published here after January 15, 2027 and once the Local Cultural Council has finalized their decisions.