Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – The Marin Cultural Association (MCA) announced two new competitive grant opportunities, representing a combined $100,000 investment in arts and culture throughout Marin County. Together, the programs expand MCA's growing grantmaking portfolio and reflect the organization's commitment to increasing equitable access to the arts, celebrating community creativity, and expanding arts education opportunities countywide.
MCA, founded in 2015, works in partnership with the County of Marin’s Department of Cultural Services to have a meaningful impact on artists and arts organizations throughout the county.
MCA Arts Across Marin Grants
Made possible through funding from the California Arts Council, the MCA Arts Across Marin Grants will award five $10,000 grants, one in each of Marin County's five supervisorial districts, to support community-centered arts and cultural activities led by Marin County artists, artist collectives, and nonprofit arts and cultural organizations.
By investing in projects that celebrate the unique character and creativity of communities throughout the county, the program expands participation in the arts, strengthens community connections, and highlights the vital role arts and culture play in enriching quality of life across Marin.
Eligible activities include community arts and cultural programs, events, festivals, performances, and exhibitions; participatory arts and creative learning opportunities for people of all ages; public art, creative placemaking, and the activation of public and community spaces; and collaborative activities that expand community participation and access to arts and culture.
Arts Now Marin Education Grants
Made possible with the support of the Marin Community Foundation, the Arts Now Marin Education Grants will award $50,000 in competitive funding, through individual grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, to support transitional kindergarten through grade five public schools, educators, and school-based partners in expanding equitable access to high-quality arts education for Marin students.
The program is part of Arts Now Marin, a countywide collaborative initiative led by the MCA in partnership with the Marin County Office of Education, Youth in Arts, and funded through Marin Community Foundation. The initiative works to strengthen Marin's arts education ecosystem by identifying barriers, expanding opportunity, fostering collaboration, and informing future investment in equitable arts education.
“Arts and culture are central to Marin’s vibrant communities, and these grants reflect our commitment to supporting and celebrating that,” said Tracy Bays-Boothe, MCA Managing Director. “Whether it’s a neighborhood cultural festival or a child’s first art class, we’re investing in the creativity of our community and helping ensure the arts are truly by and for everyone.”
Application Details
Applications for both programs are open through 5 PM Friday, December 4. Complete application materials, eligibility requirements, and timelines are available on the MCA grants page.
MCA will host a free online information session covering both opportunities at noon Monday, October 5. Participants will receive an overview of each program, eligibility requirements, and application tips, and will have the opportunity to ask questions.
MCA's flagship annual MCA Arts Grants program will return in fall 2027, continuing its longstanding support of Marin artists, arts organizations, and creative collectives.