Best Grants for Performing Arts in Massachusetts

Early-stage, impact-first nonprofits and mission-driven for-profits in Massachusetts tackling major social or environmental challenges can receive up to US $300,000 over three years for scalable solutions. Focused on bold, systems-oriented models, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation invites organizations whose work may include performing arts approaches that directly benefit underserved communities.

Nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations using technology to tackle education, crisis response, economic empowerment, or climate resilience challenges may be eligible for Global Impact Cash Grants in Massachusetts and worldwide. Grants from Cisco Systems Foundation help programs serving predominantly economically underserved communities scale innovative, tech-enabled solutions, with awards up to US $100,000 and applications accepted year-round via an initial LOI.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million that provide direct social services can seek more than US $100,000 to support programs, capital needs, or general operations that reduce chronic poverty and build economic independence. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation favors large, U.S.-based organizations, including those whose social service work intersects with youth development or community arts engagement.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Performing arts and arts education nonprofits in Massachusetts seeking project-based support for music, opera, performance, and media arts can apply for grants of US $2,500 - US $50,000. Grants from Mattina R. Proctor Foundation help organizations deliver performances and educational programs, especially those serving traditionally underserved communities.

Nonprofits, social enterprises, schools, and other eligible organizations in Massachusetts and across the U.S. can seek more than US $50,000 to support or scale projects serving urban low-income children and youth in education. The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation funds work that improves outcomes for children, which may include programs connected to performing arts education.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations funding charitable, scientific, medical, educational, or performing arts work in Massachusetts may be eligible for this U.S.-focused grant. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help tax-exempt organizations with broadly beneficial programs that significantly impact their target populations and contribute to the general welfare within the country.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Massachusetts performing arts nonprofits, schools, tribal governments, and public agencies can access funding for touring performances, readings, and screenings through the New England States Touring (NEST) program. Grants from New England Foundation for the Arts provide up to US $15,000 toward artist fees for multi-site tours and community engagement across New England.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving underserved youth ages 6–21 can apply for the William E Schrafft & Bertha E Schrafft Charitable Trust’s program or general operating support, especially for academic enrichment, youth development, and arts programming. Performing arts organizations in Boston or New Bedford that meet these criteria may be eligible, particularly small to medium, community-based groups.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts offering youth development, academic enrichment, or arts programming, including performing arts, can apply for program or general operating support from the William E Schrafft & Bertha E Schrafft Charitable Trust. With a mission to foster underserved youths’ intellectual, personal, and artistic growth, the Trust prioritizes small to medium, community-based groups in Boston and New Bedford.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts and culture organizations, including those in Massachusetts, can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000 to support artistic and cultural endeavors. With a mission to advance life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, this funder also considers projects in education, children’s services, humanitarian aid, animals, and the environment.

Performing artists, small performing arts organizations, bands, and collaboratives in Massachusetts can receive up to US $15,000 to create, produce, or present new work for Greater Boston audiences. Boston Foundation supports performing arts projects in its catchment area, including dance, theater, music, opera, spoken word, circus, traditional and folk arts, and multidisciplinary performance.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Massachusetts-based artists and community organizations creating public art projects in Massachusetts that cultivate spatial justice can apply for New England Foundation for the Arts’ Public Art for Spatial Justice grants, offering US $15,000 - US $30,000. Performing arts projects that engage public space, center community, and disrupt harmful narratives may be especially competitive.

Massachusetts nonprofit and municipal performing arts centers presenting eligible touring shows or artists can receive funding to help cover touring artist or show fees. Grants from Mass Cultural Council help Massachusetts performing arts venues stay competitive with resort-style casinos and strengthen community access to live arts across the state.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Massachusetts performing arts and community nonprofits with funding for cultural enrichment, arts education, and access for underserved audiences. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must align with its Meeting Basic Needs, Supporting Community Vitality, or Volunteer-Driven Causes focus areas and serve clients in the U.S., with priority for strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Malden and surrounding Massachusetts communities can apply for Adelaide Breed Bayrd Foundation grants to support culture, education, healthcare, social services, and youth or elderly programs. Performing arts and cultural organizations that clearly benefit Malden residents may be eligible, with a preference for capital improvements over operating deficits.

Nonprofits, government entities, and individual artists in Massachusetts can receive funding for cultural heritage events and public arts programming in Chelsea, including performances, festivals, and community celebrations. Grants from City of Chelsea help cover programming costs, equipment rentals, accessibility services, marketing, insurance, venue fees, and food for public, Chelsea-focused arts and culture activities, up to US $15,000.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Massachusetts arts, humanities, and science organizations planning public cultural activities can access funding through Mass Cultural Council, with awards of US $2,500 - US $5,000. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, for-profits, government entities, Pre-K–12 schools, and unincorporated groups, including those offering performing arts, festivals, residencies, education, or other community-focused creative experiences.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.