How to apply

Grant Cycles

The 2024 round of Cultural Council funding is now closed.
Thank you for your applications. We will be in touch in touch with applicants.

Do you have questions about how to apply for a MCC grant? We have answers! Check out this video on the FY24 Local Cultural Council Grant Application Walk-Through.

We look forward to receiving your creative proposals. We always welcome your questions in order to assist you with your application. Please review eligibility requirements carefully, as well as our stated priorities. Note: you do NOT need to be a registered nonprofit.

Please join us for Creative Connect: Local Funding Opportunities - a free informational event to learn about funding opportunities in Melrose, gain advice from local art administrators, and network with other creatives. The event will be held on Wednesday, September 13, from 6:30-8:00pm, at MMTV (360 Main Street, Melrose).

Grant Eligibility

  • Applicants must meet eligibility and criteria requirements found in the LCC Program Guidelines.

  • Applicants must have a date scheduled during the upcoming calendar year (January 1-December 31) with a secured local venue.

  • Applicants should ensure locations are ADA compliant.

  • The Melrose Cultural Council grants partial funds for approved projects. Proposals must demonstrate they have additional sources of funding (other grants, sponsorship, ticket sales, etc.).

  • We do not accept requests for capital expenditures, individual scholarships, refreshments, or multi-year repeating programs.

  • Out-of-city artists/presenters must include a letter from the local host organization confirming the date and location of the project.

  • Grants are competitive and not all requests are awarded.

  • Awards have typically ranged from $300 to $2,000, but you are free to request an amount suited to your project needs.

Our 2024 Priorities

Our 2024 priorities are informed by a community outreach survey conducted by the MCC.

  • We are actively encouraging applications that address inclusion, diversity and equity.

  • We hope to elevate the voices and experiences of historically underrepresented groups that reflect and highlight the current and historic diversity of Melrose residents in an authentic way, through arts and culture, including projects that speak to the experience of Massachusetts artists and audiences who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA, immigrant, or live with disabilities.

  • Priority will be given to projects that build community through social connections and dialogue.

  • Proposals for innovative ideas, collaborations, and new initiatives are encouraged.

  • Proposals for free public events and activities in outdoor spaces are favorably welcomed.

  • Priority is given to applications from Melrose organizations, individuals, and organizers.

  • We encourage first-time applicants.

Application Process

  • Applications should be submitted online; paper applications are available upon request.

  • Three pages of supplemental material can be submitted online. 

  • Not ready to apply yet? Check out a sample application.

  • Have questions? Need help with your application or budget? Reach out to us at: MelroseCultural@gmail.com.

If necessary, additional materials may be mailed to: 
Melrose Cultural Council
Jason Webb, Co-Chair
Jim Bracciale, Co-Chair
562 Main St, Melrose, MA 02176

Let’s get creative, Melrose!