Up to $300,000 for Local Nonprofits – Cummings $35 Million Grant Program

The Cummings Foundation $35 Million Grant Program is now accepting Letters of Inquiry for its 2027 funding round, with 150 nonprofits set to share $35 million in multi-year funding across Greater Boston, Massachusetts.

Here’s what you can expect:

• $10,000–$100,000 per year

• Standard awards run for three years, meaning organisations can receive up to $300,000

• 125 organisations will receive three-year grants

• A further 25 successful organisations will be upgraded to 10-year grants

• 10-year funding is only available to organisations that have previously received a Cummings Foundation grant

• Nearly all awards will be unrestricted general operating support

• Funding can therefore support staffing, administration, technology, facilities, supplies, programmes and other core operating needs.

Who can apply?

• Public charities with 501(c)(3) status

• Organisations headquartered in eligible areas of Massachusetts

• Applicants must provide the majority of their services within the eligible area

• Eligible locations include Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk counties, plus Brookline, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Quincy and Wellesley

• Organisations must generally be genuinely local rather than regional, national or international

• Priority areas include human services, fairness and justice, education, healthcare and the environment

• Individuals, private foundations, political organisations and most religious activities are not eligible.

Deadline: 16 September 2026 at 5:00pm ET for the initial Letter of Inquiry