The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $2 million in grants to 59 organizations throughout Massachusetts through the Massachusetts 250 Grant Program. This initiative, managed by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT), is intended to support marketing efforts and events marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The program previously distributed $1.5 million in September 2024.
Funded projects include historical tours, exhibits, community festivals, and educational programs. Several initiatives focus on narratives from Indigenous communities, Black and Latino residents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women who contributed to the state’s revolutionary history.
Governor Maura Healey stated: “The enthusiasm for MA250 is visible all across the state, with exciting events and exhibitions happening every day and visitors from across the country and the globe coming to town to take part. With this round of MA250 grants, we’re reinforcing our investments to tell the story of Massachusetts, from our revolutionary roots to the vibrant, inclusive state we are today. These projects honor our shared history while telling the stories that have been left untold for too long, strengthening local economies and shaping a statewide celebration of our values and our future.”
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll added: “This new round of funding will bring people together to celebrate our shared history, especially as we approach Independence Day. These projects help us spark curiosity, invite community and businesses to join in, and build real excitement as we count down to a once-in-a-generation celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary in July 2026.”
Interim Secretary of Economic Development Ashley Stolba commented: “These grants are a catalyst for local economic growth. By supporting community-driven events and underrepresented stories, the Massachusetts 250 Grant Program will energize small businesses and expanding create new economic opportunities across the state.”
Kate Fox, Executive Director of MOTT said: “Massachusetts was the birthplace of the Revolution, and today, we’re helping communities across Massachusetts share the full depth of that story. These grants will bring history to life in new and exciting ways as we approach 2026.”
Of this round’s funded projects, ten are located in Gateway Cities—municipalities recognized for their significance within Massachusetts’ cultural landscape. Examples include Springfield Performing Arts Ventures receiving $16,000 for Revolutionary Love Community Theater’s “Saving the Revolution,” which highlights Henry Knox’s historic cannon trek; Discover Central MA being granted $50,000 for its Central MA250 Revolutionary Firsts Trail campaign promoting regional Revolutionary history through digital content; New Bedford Whaling Museum receiving $25,000 for its multi-part project on innovation during New Bedford’s past; as well as celebrations planned by Revolutionary Quincy.
A full list of grant recipients can be found at mass.gov/info-details/fy26-ma250-grant-awardees.
The MOTT’s mission includes promoting Massachusetts year-round as a travel destination while contributing to statewide economic growth through various support services related to tourism planning (visitma.com). More information about ongoing commemorative activities can be found at massachusetts250.org.
