FY26 grant funding process

Each year, the Medford Arts Council (MAC) funds public arts and culture activities in Medford, including lectures, concerts, festivals, performances, classes, and school field trips.

important dates

Application Opens: September 2, 2025
Info Session: September 9, 2025 (6 PM) – Highly Recommended
Application Deadline: October 16, 2025 (11:59 PM ET)
Award Notices: January 16, 2026

APPLY NOW

HOW TO APPLY

1. Review

State LCC Program Guidelines and FAQs
MAC’s local guidelines & priorities (outlined below)

2. Register

Create a user account in the MCC SmartSimple grants portal

3. Prepare

Register for the LCC Application info session
Gather required materials including Letters of Support & Work Samples

4. Submit

Complete online application by the deadline

💡 Questions or tech issues? Contact MCC Help Desk at 617-858-2721.

Local Grant Priorities & Scoring

MAC will consider all proposals but gives preference to projects aligning with these priorities:

*Community identified FY 26 Priority

Key Guidelines

Collaborations: Must include a Letter of Support from partners including venue hosts confirming use of space.

Eligibility: Non-residents may apply if serving the Medford public with events in Medford
Funding Limit: Grants awards vary from $250 - $5,000. Larger requests are occasionally considered.
Additional Funding Sources: Any request over $2,500 should show strong prospects for additional funding sources
No Fundraisers: Grants cannot directly support fundraising activities.
Complete Applications Only: Budget & supplemental materials required.

State Requirements

Non-discrimination: No bias based on race, gender, creed, color, origin, disability, sexual orientation, or age.
Accessibility: All funded programs must be accessible to persons with disabilities—both in location and content.

After You Apply

Declined applicants: Notified first for reconsideration opportunity.
Approved applicants: Receive award letters, crediting instructions, and forms in January.