BOSTON — Mass Cultural Council today announced that 51 nonprofit and municipal performing arts centers across the Commonwealth will receive a total of $3,568,500 through the Fiscal Year 2026 Gaming Mitigation Fund grant program.

 

In Berkshire County:

 

"Mass Cultural Council is proud to support our performing arts centers and the communities they serve," said David T. Slatery, Acting Executive Director, Mass Cultural Council. "These organizations are vibrant cultural anchors and powerful economic drivers. This funding ensures they can continue to attract exceptional touring performances, expand access to high-quality arts experiences, and strengthen local economies across Massachusetts."

 

Now in the second year of a two-year grant cycle, all FY26 recipients previously applied for and received funding through the program in FY25. Individual grant awards this year range from $6,000 to $200,000.

 

As directed by statute, Mass Cultural Council receives 2 percent of state casino tax revenues to administer the program. The Gaming Mitigation Fund is specifically designed to mitigate the direct competitive impact of casinos, which often operate with larger entertainment budgets and expanded amenities, and preserve the sustainability of nonprofit and municipal performing arts venues throughout the Commonwealth.

 

Since its launch six years ago, the Gaming Mitigation Fund has invested more than $20 million in over 90 organizations statewide.