Cultural Council

Areas of Responsibility

Our goal is to foster the support of programs in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences.

The Sturbridge Cultural Council gathers input from the community to help us determine funding priorities. For this year, the Sturbridge Cultural Council will give priority to: 

• Projects/Programs that enrich the lives of Sturbridge residents 
• Projects/Programs that encourage community involvement 
• Projects/Programs that increase awareness of cultural diversity and inclusion 
• Projects/Programs that are live and in-person
• Applicants who have secured a local venue and have a letter of support from the venue 

In addition to the state criteria, applications will be evaluated using the following criteria: 

• How well the program meets our local priorities 
• Ability to address the needs of a specific population in Sturbridge, or support forms of cultural activities for all residents Financial need 
• Demonstrated planning which includes: 
  • A clear objective 
  • Support from a local venue 
  • Tentative date(s) or timeline

For specific guidelines and complete information on the Sturbridge Cultural Council, contact the council chair by email at sturbridgeculturalcouncil@gmail.com  Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online.

Grant Application Process

The Sturbridge Cultural Council seeks proposals for community-oriented projects in the arts, humanities, and science programs each year. Grant proposal applications will be accepted between September 1 and October 17 every year. Grant topics include exhibits, festivals, workshops, lectures, field trips, short-term artist residencies, or performances in schools. 

Previously funded projects include: 

• Concerts
• Adult art workshops
• Children's programs
• Lectures
• Choral groups
• And more

For more information about eligibility, guidelines, and to apply, click here to visit the Mass Cultural Council website.

Council Vacancies

The Sturbridge Cultural Council is currently seeking two new volunteer members from the town. If Interested, please contact: sturbridgeculturalcouncil@gmail.com.