Mass Cultural Council Creative Experiences Grants Now Available

10:39AM / Wednesday, March 11, 2026Print Story | Email Story

BOSTON — Applications are now being accepted to Mass Cultural Council's Creative Experiences FY27 grant round.

This program provides funding for experiences in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences that invite public participation, spark engagement, and contribute to the cultural vitality of Massachusetts.

The Creative Experiences program provides one-year grants of $2,500 or $5,000 to organizations intended to support activities taking place between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027.

As the Commonwealth's independent state arts agency, Mass Cultural Council is charged with bolstering the cultural sector, thereby advancing economic vitality, supporting transformational change, and celebrating, preserving, and inspiring creativity across all Massachusetts communities.

Key dates for the FY27 Creatives Experiences grant round include:

Applications Due – April 30, 2026 at 11:59PM (ET)

Award Notification – Expected Fall 2026

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines for more information, including instructions on how to apply.

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Pittsfield Organizations Remember Late Community Advocate

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
11:55AM / Wednesday, March 11, 2026

The Pittsfield City Council takes a moment to remember Ephraim Schwartz.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City Council on Tuesday bowed their heads to recognize the loss of a local advocate, Ephraim Alexander Schwartz.

"Ephraim was a familiar presence in these chambers and a passionate advocate to advance human rights for everyone," said Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi, who called for the moment of silence

"He believed deeply in civic participation and engaged many of us thoughtfully about various issues on how to improve our community."

Schwarz died suddenly on March 5; Berkshire Pride spoke to Schwartz's passing Monday on social media. He was an LGBTQ+ and human rights activist who regularly spoke during public comment at City Council meetings.

"Everything we do, we do in community. Including grief and loss," the nonprofit wrote. "Berkshire Pride is mourning the loss of Ephraim Schwartz, a local activist, friend, and community member."

A memorial service will be held at Temple Anshe Amunim on Sunday, March 15, at 11 a.m.

Schwartz was one of the early organizers of Queer Men of the Berkshires (Q-MoB), served on the Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition board, and was one of the founders of the Berkshire Queer History Project and a founder of Pittsfield Housing for All.

He regularly spoke against the proposed median and camping ordinances that were brought forward last year.

"May we all remember his wonderful smile, unshakeable commitment to justice & empowering the voices and dignity of those who are marginalized, attacked, or forgotten," Q-MoB wrote on the event page for the memorial service.

Berkshire Pride encouraged community members to email info@berkshirepride.org for resources and support.

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