The East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts (CCFA) is inviting applications for the third round of community grants for the fiscal year 2025, with a new submission deadline set for November 15, 2024. These grants support arts and cultural projects, with awards typically ranging from $50 to $1,500. The applications submitted by this deadline will be reviewed at the CCFA's December meeting. Eligible projects must be well-planned and must directly contribute to fine arts or cultural activities, such as concerts, performances, public art installations, festivals, workshops, exhibits, after-school programs, and readings. Projects that primarily involve research do not qualify for funding.
The grant funds may cover a range of expenses associated with eligible projects, including wages directly linked to the event or program, payments for professional services, space rental, production costs, materials, advertising, and evaluation services. However, there are several restrictions on the use of funds. For instance, the grant cannot be used for expenses outside the funding period, capital improvements, debt payments, scholarships, political or religious activities, legal fees, or food and beverages for events. This ensures that funding is allocated to directly support artistic and cultural endeavors.
Applicants planning to use Town facilities or seeking co-sponsorship from Town departments must obtain prior approval from the relevant department. The application should detail the project plan, budget, and how it aligns with the grant’s objectives. The grants are intended to foster community engagement in arts and culture, providing an opportunity for a variety of creative projects to flourish within East Hartford.
All funded projects must be completed by June 30, 2025, with expenditures finalized by September 1, 2025. Final reports, including both narrative and financial documentation, will be required upon the project’s completion. These reports help ensure accountability and provide insights into the project's impact and the effective use of grant funds.
The grant decisions will be made by the CCFA at public meetings, typically held on the second Thursday of each month. The East Hartford Public Library provides administrative support for the program but does not influence the funding decisions. For comprehensive eligibility criteria and access to the application, prospective applicants should visit the CCFA’s section on the Town’s official website.
