Lydia McCain Next Steps Grant 2026-2027

On behalf of Lydia McCain, Erie Arts & Culture provides financial support to arts organizations that are prepared to take a next step as it relates to its mission, operations, or programs. The Lydia McCain Next Steps Grant for Arts Organizations is a $5,000 grant designed to help arts organizations pursue strategies that help ensure their future success and impact in Erie County, Pennsylvania.

Grant funding may be used for next steps and related expenses incurred between June 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027. 

Eligible next steps include, but are not necessarily limited to:

Mission:

• Strategic planning;
• Board development and engagement;
• Creating a case for support;

Operations:

• Revising policies, procedures, and protocols through the lens of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility;
• Organizational restructuring and recruiting;
• Accessing capacity-building consulting services;

Programs:

• Assessing and evolving existing programmatic offerings;
• Identifying and activating new relationships in the Erie region;
• Implementing new initiatives that address community needs and gaps in existing programs/services;

Ineligible Uses of Grant Funds:

• Activities that have a religious purpose
• Commercial (for-profit) enterprises or activities, including concessions, food, clothing, artwork, or other items for resale; this includes online or virtual sales/shops
• Capital improvements or land acquisition
• Establishing an operating reserve
• Hospitality, food, or beverages, including alcoholic beverages
• Lobbying, including activities intended to influence the outcome of elections or influence government officials regarding pending legislation, either directly or through specific lobbying appeals to the public
• Mortgage interest, fines and penalties, bad debt costs, or deficit reduction
• Reimbursements for expenses incurred outside of the grant activity period (June 1, 2026 - May 31, 2027).
• Rental costs for home office workspace owned by individuals or entities affiliated with the applicant organization
• Vehicle purchases
• Visa costs paid to the US government
• Voter registration drives and related activities

Questions about eligibility? Please contact Casey Corritore, Capacity Building Lead, at casey@erieartsandculture.org | 814-452-3427 x 108.

Applicants will be notified of funding decisions on May 31, 2026.