Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Massachusetts Cultural Council?
The Massachusetts Cultural Council is a state agency committed to building a central place for the arts, sciences and humanities in the everyday lives of communities across the Commonwealth. The Council pursues this mission through a combination of grant programs, partnerships, and services for nonprofit cultural organizations, schools, communities, and individual artists.
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Where does MCC get its budget?
MCC receives an annual appropriation from the state Legislature and funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Wallace Foundation, and others.
For more information on the state budget process, please see the online resources at www.MAASH.org.
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Is MCC part of Massachusetts state government?
Yes, MCC is an agency of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MCC receives an annual appropriation from the Legislature and is governed by an appointed Board of Directors.
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Who receives MCC grants?
The Council supports Massachusetts artists, organizations,
schools, and communities through its eight major grant
programs and partnerships.
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Am I eligible for MCC funding?
The Council provides funding to non-profit 501(c)3 organizations incorporated by the state of Massachusetts with a proven record of public programs and/or services in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences. In some program areas, funding is available to elementary and secondary schools, libraries, municipal agencies, universities or school-affiliated groups, and community groups.
MCC also provides funding to individuals who have made Massachusetts their legal residence for at least two years and who have demonstrated excellence in an artistic discipline.
For specific eligibility requirements, please refer to our eligibility
page or contact your MCC Program Coordinator.
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How are grants awarded?
In all program areas, MCC funding is determined by a competitive panel review. Panels comprise experts from throughout the nation, and vary according to discipline and program area. The peer panel process is the most widespread and accepted practice used by cultural funding agencies to distribute funds fairly and equitably.
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How can I apply?
Check the eligibility requirements and application
deadlines for the grant program that best meets your needs. If you
are a new applicant, contact your MCC Program Coordinator
for guidance.
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What other services does MCC provide?
MCC assists cultural organizations, local cultural councils, schools, and artists develop tools, skills, and relationships they need to increase cultural participation and thrive in the 21st century.
MCC provides workshops, seminars, one-on-one assistance, and web resources
to aide the work of cultural organizations, local cultural councils, artists,
and educators. See our list of services.
The agency also celebrates the artistic and humanistic accomplishments
of our state's outstanding individual artists and organizations through
the Commonwealth Awards.
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Who can I contact to learn more?
Our staff list is available online. All media
inquiries should be directed to the Communications Department
at 617-727-3668.
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