About MCA’s Cultural Grant Program
At the Marion Cultural Alliance, we believe great communities are built through creativity. Our Cultural Grant Program invests directly in nonprofit arts organizations—bringing performances, exhibitions, and educational experiences to life across Marion County.
Launched in 2001 through the success of Horse Fever, the program has awarded over $585,000 to support impactful arts initiatives that connect, inspire, and strengthen our community.
Why Apply?
MCA Cultural Grants are designed to help nonprofit arts organizations do more—reach more people, elevate programming, and bring ambitious ideas to life.
By applying, you can:
- Expand your impact through new or enhanced programming
- Access funding for projects, equipment, and creative initiatives
- Reach broader audiences and deepen community engagement
- Strengthen your organization’s visibility and credibility
- Be part of a county-wide network of organizations shaping Marion County’s cultural landscape
With grants of up to $10,000, MCA empowers organizations to dream bigger, reach further, and create lasting impact.
Whether you’re launching something new or growing an existing program, MCA Cultural Grants provide the support to move your vision forward.
Congratulations to the recipients of MCA 2025 – 2026 Cultural Grants.
2025-26 Cultural Grants Recipients
- Silver River Museum | Ocali Country Days | $4,000
- Marion All County Choir | Marion All County Secondary Choral Festival | $4,000
- Arts in Health Ocala Metro | Super Art Series | $3,000
- The Appleton Museum of Art – The College of Central Florida | United Way Community Schools (East Marion and College Part Art) | $4,000
- Dance Alive National Ballet | 60th Anniversary Celebration | $3,000
- Reilly Arts Center | Preservation Hall Jazz Band | $2,000
- Ocala Symphony Orchestra | Music Box Series | $1,000
- Kingdom of the Sun Community Band | 2025 Concert Series | $2,000
- Public Education Foundation | Ocala Film Derby | $3,000
- Ocala Civic Theatre | Puppetry at the Ocala Civic Theatre | $4,000
The Grant Process
Each spring, the Marion Cultural Alliance announces the opening of its Cultural Grant Program, inviting Ocala/Marion County nonprofit arts, cultural, and historic organizations to apply for funding. Grants are awarded to support, enhance, and expand creative programming and initiatives that enrich our community.
With grants of up to $10,000, MCA empowers organizations to dream bigger, reach further, and create lasting impact.
Funding is available across all artistic disciplines, including music, theater, dance, visual arts, cinema, literary arts, folk arts, and photography. Historical and scientific museums are also encouraged to apply.
Applications are reviewed through a competitive process by a panel of community volunteers, chaired by MCA Emeritus Board Member Trish Kilgore. Each proposal is evaluated using criteria aligned with the Florida Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture.
Following panel review, funding recommendations are submitted to the MCA Executive Committee and Board of Directors for final approval.
Organizations approved for funding are notified after the August Board meeting, with formal grant awards presented during Applaud the Arts, MCA’s annual celebration of the arts.
Application Deadline: Submit all materials through the MCA Grant Portal by 5:00 PM on Monday, July 20, 2026
Final Report: Due within 30 days following completion of the funded project.
Grant Application
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Acknowledgement
GRANTEES MUST ACKNOWLEDGE THE GRANT IN ALL PUBLICITY AND MATERIALS USING THE MCA LOGO PROVIDED AND/OR VERBIAGE LIKE: SUPPORTED IN PART BY A GRANT FROM MARION CULTURAL ALLIANCE. MCA MAY PUBLICIZE THE GRANT USING PHOTOGRAPHS FROM APPLICATIONS AND REPORTS.
