the grant funding process
Each year we provide funds to support numerous public activities in Medford in the areas of arts and culture, including lectures, concerts, festivals, performances, classes, and school field trips.
In 2018 we moved to a direct granting process for projects funded in 2019 and beyond, as part of a statewide pilot to transition away from a reimbursement-based program. This means you will get your grant up front, instead of later upon completion of your grant project! Reimbursements will no longer be required (though a final report will be requested). We are very excited about this new approach, as it should reduce the financial burden on grantees.
How to apply
Grant applications are accepted September 1 through October 16. During that time period, you can apply online through the MCC web portal, SmartSimple. For more information and resources about the application process, please visit the MCC website.
You do not have to be a Medford resident to apply, but your project does have to serve the Medford public at large or specific Medford audiences such as kids, seniors, or other groups.
We have local requirements, so be sure to follow Medford’s additional guidelines before submitting your application.
HELPFUL TIPS:
Letters of support and other application documents should be uploaded using the “Supplemental Materials” tab of the online system.
The project budget on the application form must be filled out completely.
Include information about other sources of project income in your project budget.
Grant funds may not be used to purchase food, refreshments, or gifts.
We do not return application materials, so please do not send us anything you need returned.
If you have a technical issue or a question about the online application, please contact the MCC help desk at 617-858-2721.
Rainworks Haiku
after you apply
We review all grant applications at public meetings using the state and local guidelines and our scoring procedures. We also balance the amounts granted to different sorts of projects and different audiences so our grants can best serve the entire community.
We send preliminary notification to all applicants shortly after we vote on grants. Declined applicants are notified first to allow for the reconsideration process. Approved applicants generally receive a letter along with crediting instructions and other forms in January.
Crediting and Publicity Requirements
If the project involves a public performance or exhibition, grant recipients are asked to send an announcement of the event to the Council two months prior to the event so that the Council can attempt to publicize it and have the option of attending the event.
The Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) and the Medford Arts Council (MAC) must be credited by using the MCC and MAC credit logos and the credit line. We encourage grant recipients to use both the MCC and MAC credit logos and the credit statement, but you are only required to use one. If the logo is used, both the MCC and MAC logos must be used together.