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Grants

Click here for information about applying online at the Mass Cultural Council website.  

How does the SCC decide which projects to fund?
The SCC reviews all the grant applications submitted for the annual Oct 15th deadline and then distributes the available funds to projects that will support its mission in the following areas:

  • Enjoying Stow’s Open Spaces: Activities focusing on our connection to the outdoors utilizing town landscapes and resources, such as local farms and conservation areas.
  • Enriching Connections: Activities jointly sponsored by local organizations that would serve the Town of Stow. All local organizations are invited to collaborate and apply.
  • Exploring the Arts & Sciences: Activities providing a community forum for experiencing the arts and sciences.

What other criteria are used to make grant decisions?
Proposals are evaluated in terms of several considerations, including benefit to the community (especially projects that may benefit segments traditionally underserved by cultural activities) and if the project applicant or project sponsor is located in Stow. Community benefit is the MOST important criteria for review; other review criteria include the following:

  • Quality of the activity
  • Evidence of planning (project dates, times, and venue secured)
  • Qualifications of the individual(s) who will lead the activity
  • Track record of the sponsoring group

Who can apply for grants from the SCC?
These grants are open to Massachusetts-based individuals, artists, non-profit community groups, cultural institutions, and schools to support particular programs related to the arts, humanities or interpretive sciences. School-related proposals must be for enrichment activities and not for programs, supplies, or salaries that should be part of the school budget. Call the council for clarification about school and library requests, or about any capital expenditure requests. The Council carefully scrutinizes repeat requests; such proposals should include other sources of support to show the project is not dependent solely on Council.