The Westminster Cultural Council (WCC) is now accepting funding proposals aimed at supporting community-focused programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences. Organizations and individuals in and around Westminster can apply for a share of over $12,000 in available grants. The funds will support a range of activities, including exhibitions, festivals, artist residencies, workshops, lectures, and performances.
This initiative encourages local creativity and cultural engagement. Previous projects funded by the WCC have included music events at the Community Senior Center, cultural programs in local schools, entertainment at the Farmers’ Market, and various initiatives at the Forbush Memorial Library. These projects reflect the Council’s commitment to enriching the community through diverse cultural offerings.
Application Details and Guidelines
To be eligible for funding, applicants must ensure their programs directly benefit the citizens of Westminster. The WCC encourages potential applicants to review the findings of the 2025 Cultural Needs Survey, which highlights the types of programs that residents expressed interest in attending. This survey can be accessed on the official Westminster website.
Applications must be submitted online by October 16, 2025, at 22:00. The WCC aims to fund a variety of projects that appeal to different audiences. Of particular note, the Council encourages applicants to seek additional funding, especially from other local cultural councils that could enhance the proposed programs. For projects involving the Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District middle and high schools, it is recommended that both towns’ cultural councils contribute to the funding.
For those who reside outside Westminster, a “Letter of Support” from a local organization, venue, or sponsor is required to accompany the application. The WCC is also accepting applications for cultural field trips for children from pre-K through 12th grade, with funds available to subsidize ticket prices.
Timeline and Assistance
The projects funded by this grant must be completed between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. The Massachusetts Cultural Council provides grant application forms, which will be available starting September 2, 2025. The Council emphasizes that the application process is straightforward.
For assistance with the application process, applicants can contact local representatives Sammi Dawley at [email protected] or Pat Gendron at [email protected]. The WCC’s efforts to foster cultural development highlight the importance of community involvement and support in enriching the local arts landscape.
