Worcester Arts Council Awards $250K in Grants for Local Arts and Cultural Programs

WORCESTER, Mass. - The Worcester Arts Council (WAC) and the City of Worcester announced Wednesday the awarding of 54 grants totaling $250,299 for arts and cultural programs in Worcester for 2026.

For its 2026 grant cycle, WAC received 163 applications, including 21 fellowship and 142 project applications. Between October and December 2025, WAC evaluated all submissions based on criteria including public benefit, creative and artistic merit, organizational capacity, budget feasibility, impact, and innovation. The Council also considered how well applications aligned with their annual funding priorities, which are established based on community input.

"Arts and culture are a powerful force in preserving our history. Creatives tell our stories, shape our identity, and reflect the diverse voices that make our community strong," said City Manager Eric D. Batista. "I am deeply grateful to our city's artists, creatives, and cultural organizations for showcasing who we are while envisioning what we can become. These art council grants help safeguard our city's cultural traditions while empowering artists to create new work that enriches our community for generations to come. As we navigate unprecedented challenges, this investment strengthens the creative ecosystem by fostering sustainability, equity, and long-term impact for both artists and the communities they serve."

WAC received $236,500 in funding from the Mass Cultural Council (MCC) this year, with an additional $10,000 from the Greater Worcester Community Foundation (GWCF) to support artist fellowships. The remaining funds will be put toward marketing, survey administration, and an annual reception for awardees.

"We are deeply grateful to MCC and GWCF for their continued investment in the arts," said Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. "They consistently advocate for increased state and private funding to support local cultural councils. Their leadership helps ensure the long-term vitality of arts and culture in our communities. We are especially thankful to the volunteer council members and staff whose time, care and thoughtful review of applications ensure a fair and meaningful process. Their combined efforts ensure that resources are thoughtfully distributed to artists and organizations making a meaningful impact in our community."

The 2026 WAC project awardees represent a diverse range of Worcester-based programs and organizations, including Black Artist Collective of New England, Crocodile River Music, Love Your Labels. In addition, four Worcester artists-Yona Browne, Obiamaka Igwenagu, Cesar Rodrigues and Nicole "Nic" Jean Turner-were awarded $5,000 fellowships.

The current Worcester Arts Council members are:

• Chris Michelotti (Chair)
• Victor Rivera (Vice Chair)
• Erin Michelotti (Treasurer)
• Cassie DeMarzio (Secretary)
• Amanda Dye
• Jennifer Griffin Gaul
• Angelique Webster
• Hasib Mahmud
• Meg O'Rourke (Staff Liaison)

There is currently one open seat on the Council.

The complete list of 2026 grant recipients can be viewed below.

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