LOWELL – The City of Lowell is pleased to announce three new American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) programs designed to support the City’s Cultural Sector’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The programs, underpinned by nearly $1 million, will focus on three key areas: Cultural Organizations, Public Art, and Non-Profit Festivals and Events.

“The City understands the important role the cultural sector plays in the City’s overall economy and quality of life for Lowell residents,” said Peter Crewe, Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (CASE). “These grants are a significant step forward in the City’s recovery and return to a healthy, vibrant center of culture in the region.”

The three grants are as follows:

• City of Lowell Public Art Program: ($300,000)

  Open to non-profit organizations, for-profit businesses, and individuals. This program aims to stimulate a sense of community pride and improve the quality of life for Lowell residents. Projects must meet all City of Lowell Public Art Guidelines, and a formal public art application must be submitted. A preliminary application period will open on March 29, 2023, and close August 25, 2023, at 5:00PM. All projects must be completed by December 2025.

• Cultural Festivals and Events Program: ($200,000)

  Open to 501(c)3 organizations, non-profit organizations, and volunteer-led groups. This program is intended to provide a first or next step in recovery, and continue and enhance the successful return of cultural festivals and events in 2023. Priority will be given to festivals and events that can demonstrate a plan for sustainability beyond the end of the program. Applications will open March 29, 2023, and be reviewed on a rolling basis until June 1, 2023.

• Cultural Organization Recovery Program: ($300,000)

  Open to 501(c)3 organizations or organizations with a designated fiscal agent. This program is designed to help Lowell’s cultural organizations with audience retention and building, partnership building, and community engagement. Organizations must have been in operation on or before January 1, 2022. Applications will open June 1, 2023, and close on September 1, 2023, at 5:00PM

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (CASE) with questions and/or need for assistance: (978) 674-4260 or case@lowellma.gov. More information on the application process, as well as how to schedule an office hours session, can be found online on CASE’s Cultural Sector ARPA Grant Programs page. Online applications are welcome, and as an alternative to applying online, paper applications are available at CASE’s office at City Hall, 375 Merrimack Street, room 7.

The City of Lowell was awarded over $75 million to assist in the ongoing pandemic recovery effort. A dedicated ARPA team, functioning through the City Manager’s Finance Department, is managing ARPA funding for the City with a focus on addressing specific needs within the community and doing so as transparently as possible. For access to the online application in English, Khmer, Portuguese and Spanish, as well as additional information about the funding process and any scheduling changes or updates, please visit the City of Lowell’s ARPA Grant Opportunities page.