The Foundation is now accepting applications for the Creative Spark Mini-Grant Program. The grant program aims to enable organizations and individuals engaged in the creative sector to advance strategies outlined in the City's Cultural Plan, released at the end of May in partnership with GWCF and Worcester Cultural Coalition. The plan was unanimously approved by Worcester City Council on June 25.

Open to both organizations and individuals, these one-time grants are intended to advance the Cultural Plan by supporting new/first-time projects that align with the Foundation's values, and address one or more strategies in the plan. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, projects must have a demonstrated public benefit specifically in relation to the Cultural Plan, and take place within Worcester City Limits.

The mini-grant program is one element of the Foundation's Creative Worcester Initiative. Creative Worcester is part of the support of the Foundation's partnership with the Barr Foundation and its Creative Commonwealth Initiative. Creative Commonwealth aims to pave the way for community foundations in five cities across Massachusetts to engage a new generation of donors in strategic support for a new and more diverse cohort of artists and cultural organizations.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis from July - December 2019, or until the available funds are exhausted. To learn more, email Jonathan Cohen at jcohen@greaterworcester.org or call 508-755-0980.