The Art is Everywhere! Grant Program encourages innovative projects that use arts, culture, and creativity to tackle significant challenges faced by New Bedford’s residents, visitors, and businesses. This initiative aims to create meaningful community solutions, enhance neighborhood vitality, and contribute to the overall cultural fabric of the city.

Grants range from $1,500 to $10,000, accommodating projects of various scales, from flexible and smaller-scale ideas to ambitious and visionary initiatives. Eligible applicants include individuals, nonprofits, community groups, and for-profit entities. All projects must be based in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and directly benefit its residents, visitors, and businesses.

Priority consideration is given to projects that promote equity, celebrate diversity, ensure inclusiveness, and provide open access to arts and cultural experiences. The program emphasizes the importance of fostering a welcoming and vibrant community through innovative approaches. Funding is made possible through the City’s Arts, Culture, and Tourism Fund, supplemented by contributions from the Barr Foundation, Bristol County Savings Bank, and the Mass Cultural Council.

Applications must be submitted through the Submittable online portal, which allows applicants to save progress and complete the process incrementally. All application questions are mandatory unless specified otherwise, and submissions must be complete and accurate to avoid rejection. The application period opens on November 4, 2024, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on December 2, 2024.

For additional information or assistance, applicants can contact Hendrick Hernandez-Resto, Creative Specialist, at hhernandez@nbedc.org. This grant program underscores New Bedford’s commitment to leveraging arts and culture as tools for social impact and community transformation.