FAQ

Who is eligible to apply for a Marion Cultural Development Corporation Grant?

Eligible Applicants

Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis to incorporated non-profit organ­izations qualifying as tax-exempt organizations under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).

Unincorporated groups or individuals can apply if sponsored by a tax-exempt organization or local unit of government for the purposes of the grant proposal. Grant award funds will be made to the sponsoring tax-exempt organization. The sponsoring non-profit must indicate that it has authorization to act as your fiscal agent. This may come in the form of a board resolution or motion stating that the organization is legally able to serve as your sponsor and identifying an authorized official. If the proposal is successfully funded, the sponsoring non-profit official will sign the contract. Documentation outlining this relationship should be attached to the application or mailed to arrive by the grant deadline.

Applicant organizations must maintain their registered headquarters in Marion County. Awarded funds must primarily benefit Marion County residents.

In keeping with Oregon Cultural Trust guidelines, MCDC limits funding to the same applicant to two consecutive years. After sitting out the third year, applicants are welcome to apply again.


MCDC is unable to supplant funding lost from school budgets, but we encourage groups concerned about lack of resources for cultural education to partner with an existing 501(c)(3) sponsor or form their own.

 

I am working on a project as an individual. Is there any way I can apply for an MCDC grant?

Individuals who wish to apply for funding must be sponsored by a local 501(c)3 that agrees to serve as fiscal agent for the applicant.

How can I show that I/my organization is being sponsored by a tax-exempt group?

The sponsoring non-profit must indicate that it has authorization to act as your fiscal agent. This may come in the form of a board resolution or motion stating that the organization is legally able to serve as your sponsor and identifying an authorized official who will sign the grant application. If your grant application is successful, the grant money will be awarded directly to the sponsoring organization. It is up to applicants to identify eligible sponsoring organizations and secure sponsorship prior to applying, so don’t wait until the last minute to look!

What types of projects are funded by MCDC

MCDC funds arts, heritage and cultural projects that support the Priorities for Action found in A Plan for Cultural Development in Marion County. A copy of the plan can be found on our website.

Is there a maximum amount I can ask for?

MCDC grants are given in amounts up to $2000 and are meant to seed an initial project or event, or to fund a part of an ongoing project. Applications seeking more than $2000 from MCDC will not be considered.

The activity that we are seeking support for takes place in West Salem. May we apply grant from MCDC?

MCDC will only grant funding for projects that take place in Marion County. If your organization is located in West Salem, you could seek funding from the Polk County Cultural Coalition.

Do you have any tips for filling out the application?

Yes! Read the application instructions carefully and have somebody proofread for you. If you have any questions about the application, please feel free to ask. You can contact us by email.

If our organization received a grant last year may we apply for another one this year.

Non-profits may receive grants two consecutive years. Additionally, after skipping the third year, non-profits are eligible to receive funding again