The Newburyport Cultural Council (NCC) is offering a 2025 Cultural District Grant to support projects in arts, history, environment, and science that enhance the Newburyport Cultural District in the city's historic downtown. With a total of $15,000 in special funding available, the grant encourages community-oriented programs that foster public engagement and align with the district’s mission and cultural identity.

The NCC, operating under the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), is one of 329 Local Cultural Councils in the state. This year, the MCC will distribute over $5.5 million to support public cultural projects statewide. The NCC's portion of this funding must be allocated specifically toward programs and activities that directly support the goals of the Newburyport Cultural District. These goals include increasing visibility and accessibility of local cultural assets and enriching community involvement.

Funding through this grant is flexible in use—expenditures are considered unrestricted—but must be aligned with NCC’s vision and used within the current fiscal year, ending June 30, 2025. Applicants may include individuals or organizations proposing cultural projects that promote collaboration and interaction with the district. Special emphasis is placed on projects that deepen community ties through active engagement.

In addition to general cultural projects, the NCC is also offering grant opportunities for two media-based initiatives: the production of a promotional film to highlight Newburyport’s cultural offerings and a postcard photography project aimed at boosting cultural tourism. These two initiatives provide unique chances for filmmakers and photographers to contribute to local storytelling and outreach.

Applications are due by April 15, 2025, and can be requested by emailing CCouncil@newburyportma.gov. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that demonstrate creativity, community relevance, and the capacity to be completed or encumbered within the fiscal year.