Spark Newton is pleased to support local organizations, artists, public art, service projects and non-profits with our Community Micro Grant program.
Since 2021 over $50,000 has been distributed to amplify creative and arts-filled programming in the City of Newton. In 2025, we were pleased to introduce the new Linda Plaut Festival of the Arts grant for projects occurring over a six-week time period in the spring. This grant will once again happen in 2026 with the application opening on January 15, 2026.
Fall Grant Applications: Our Fall 2025 application will open on August 1
and will close on August 25. Our Spring 2026 application will open January 15.
Please see the criteria below:
- The event or program funded by our Community Micro Grant must occur between October 1, 2025 and April 30, 2026.
- If the event or project is delayed beyond one year from the receipt of the grant, Spark Newton has the right to request return of funding provided.
- Micro Grant funding will be dispersed 15-30 days prior to the event or program.
- Maximum grant request is $1,500, past grants have averaged between $300 – $1,100.
- Applicant’s event/project needs to be located in Newton.
- Applications must include event or program budget information and most recent 990 if available.
- Locations for the event or program must be vetted and approved before submitting your application.
- Please include a letter or email approving the venue date and location from the venue owner. If your event needs approval from the City of Newton Parks,
- Recreation & Culture Department, please include Permit application and/or PR&C Approval.
- Preference will be given to first time grant applications, those that offer free community programming, and those that have not been awarded an Spark Newton grant in the previous grant cycle.
- We encourage applicants and programs that embrace the diversity of Newton and represent the voices, experiences, and communities of historically marginalized groups in Newton.
- Spark Newton will consider all projects consistent with our mission: To build community through free arts and culture programming, public art, beautification and service projects. (update after mission change)
- Exclusions: public school programs, request for food/beverages, personal request for scholarship, capital improvement funding and requests for event/program support that would benefit any political or religious cause, individual or group.
Any questions regarding our program, please contact BlairSullivan@sparknewton.org