Community Event Sponsorships - Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts

About this program

Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts offers Community Event Sponsorships to support nonprofit events in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties, with awards typically $500–$1,500 (applicants may request any amount) drawn from a portion of the Foundation’s operating budget. Priority is given to events that are free and open to the public, reach donor/nonprofit/student audiences, serve underserved or underrepresented populations, and align with strategic priorities (diversity, equity & inclusion; post‑secondary education and economic mobility; early childhood development; arts & creativity); the Foundation generally avoids funding fundraising‑specific events. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations staging events within the three‑county region; organizations may be asked to verify 501(c)(3) status, and each organization may receive one sponsorship per year (sponsorships awarded three years in a row may be reduced or declined). Applications are submitted via an online form and are reviewed on a first‑come, first‑served basis at the start of the Foundation’s fiscal year, with confirmation on submission and a funding decision typically within 5–7 business days.