Marin Cultural Association (MCA) Arts Grants Program

The MCA Arts Grants program, administered by the Marin Cultural Association (MCA), is a funding initiative designed to support nonprofit arts organizations and both emerging and established artists throughout Marin County, California. Founded in 2015, the MCA operates in collaboration with the Marin Department of Cultural Services to enhance the cultural vitality of the region. Its mission centers on promoting and sustaining arts and culture in Marin County, including improving the Marin Center and Marin County Fair programs and facilities. The organization functions as a nonprofit and serves as a catalyst for community-wide cultural participation and collaboration. The MCA Arts Grants program reflects the overarching goals of MCA: to expand and preserve the county’s artistic assets, promote Marin as a vibrant cultural hub, and ensure equitable access and representation in the arts. The program aims to foster inclusivity and support work that is impactful, community-centered, and representative of the county's diverse population and artistic expressions. For 2026, the MCA Arts Grants program has allocated a total of $100,000 in funding, with support from the California Arts Council. Two funding streams are available. First, artist grants of up to $5,000 are open to individuals over 18 years old who live or work in Marin County, including artist collectives based in the county. Second, nonprofit arts organization grants offer up to $10,000 for nonprofit and fiscally sponsored organizations that deliver arts programming within Marin County. Funding may be used for a broad range of purposes, including operational and program support, materials and supplies, artist honoraria, studio or production rental fees, and production expenses for exhibitions, performances, or festivals. However, funding cannot be used by state or federal agencies, non-arts organizations, or educational institutions for their general operations. Additional restrictions apply, such as prohibitions on lobbying, fundraising services, religious or private membership-based programming, capital expenditures, debt repayment, or out-of-state travel. These restrictions align with the guidelines of the California Arts Council, which provides financial support for this program. Applications will be evaluated by a review panel comprising Bay Area arts and culture professionals, who must recuse themselves from any conflicts of interest. Applicants will be assessed based on the quality, impact, and professionalism of their work, as well as their responsiveness to application questions and submission of compelling work samples. To be eligible, applicants must live, work, or present arts programming in Marin County. They must also meet deadlines and provide accurate information throughout the process. The application portal for the 2026 grant cycle opened on January 5, 2026, and submissions are due by February 27, 2026. Award announcements will be made on June 1, 2026, with checks distributed by June 30, 2026. All funded activities must occur between June 1, 2026, and May 30, 2027. Recipients are required to submit a summary of fund usage along with supporting documentation, and to complete a post-grant survey. Additionally, grant recipients consent to the use of their likeness and work by MCA for program reporting and promotional purposes. Failure to comply with these requirements will disqualify recipients from future MCA grant opportunities.

Be specific in describing project impact and budgeting; proof and finalize responses before submission; ensure work samples are representative and high quality.