The Wicked Cool Places Grant Program supports placemaking and placekeeping projects that enhance community spaces in New Bedford, Massachusetts. These projects aim to create vibrant, welcoming environments that foster community engagement and contribute to the well-being of residents, visitors, and local businesses. Placemaking focuses on designing public spaces with community participation, while placekeeping emphasizes preserving the cultural and social fabric of a community alongside its physical spaces.

Grant awards range from $1,500 to $10,000, accommodating both small-scale and large-scale projects. Eligible applicants include individuals, nonprofits, community groups, and for-profit organizations. All projects must be based in New Bedford and demonstrate a direct benefit to its residents, visitors, and/or businesses. The program prioritizes initiatives that promote equity, celebrate diversity, ensure inclusiveness, and encourage open access.

Funding for the program is provided by New Bedford’s Arts, Culture, and Tourism Fund, with additional contributions from the Barr Foundation, Bristol County Savings Bank, and the Mass Cultural Council. The grant seeks to support innovative and community-driven projects that strengthen the city’s cultural and social spaces.

Applications must be submitted online via the Submittable platform. The portal allows applicants to save progress and complete the application over time. All required questions must be fully and accurately answered 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.