Bend, Oregon – The Deschutes Cultural Coalition (DCC) has opened its 2027 Cultural Grants application cycle, inviting nonprofit organizations that serve the arts, heritage and humanities to apply for essential program and operating support. The online portal went live on Monday, October 26, and the deadline for a complete submission is Friday, January 8, 2027, at 5:00 p.m.
Grant purpose and partnership
The grants are funded jointly by the Oregon Cultural Trust and Deschutes County. The partnership, which began in 2022, will continue through 2027 to help cultural nonprofits build capacity and sustain their vital work in the community. “Essential general program and operating support continue to be challenging for cultural organizations to raise,” said Cate O’Hagan, President of the DCC. “The DCC, in partnership with Deschutes County, is on the ground in this county to supply some of that support to our cultural organizations so they, in turn, can serve our communities.”
Eligibility and priorities
Applicants must be nonprofit entities operating within the Deschutes Cultural Plan’s four priority areas, which focus on projects that enrich the region’s cultural life, preserve local heritage, expand access to the humanities, and foster artistic innovation. Detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria, and the application form are available on the DCC website at deschutesculturalcoalition.org/grants.
Recent grant impact
In 2026, the DCC awarded $50,000 to local groups such as the Dry Canyon Arts Association, Sunriver Music Festival and Ellipse Theatre Community. Those funds helped each organization expand programming, reach new audiences and strengthen operational infrastructure. The DCC’s annual seed grants are designed to fill gaps that traditional fundraising often cannot, ensuring that cultural institutions remain vibrant contributors to Bend’s quality of life.
How to apply
Prospective applicants should review the full set of instructions, prepare a project narrative that aligns with one of the four plan priorities, and submit the completed online form by the January 8 deadline. The DCC will evaluate proposals based on relevance to the cultural plan, organizational capacity, and the potential for lasting community impact. Grant awards will be announced in January, with funds disbursed shortly thereafter.
About the Deschutes Cultural Coalition
Oregon’s 45 county and tribal Cultural Coalitions receive direct funding from the Oregon Cultural Trust. The Deschutes Cultural Coalition, led by dedicated volunteers, serves as a conduit for state and county resources, prioritizing community cultural goals and distributing seed grants that address local needs. By supporting a broad spectrum of cultural endeavors, the DCC helps preserve the region’s unique identity and promotes a thriving creative economy.
For more information, a list of past grantees, or assistance with the application process, visit the DCC’s website or contact the coalition directly.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
