Thanks to the City of Torrington and the American Rescue Plan Act, NWCT Arts Council will dedicate $15,000 to support the community through a new grant program. Following a difficult few years for both the creative community and residents of Torrington as a whole, the Arts Council believes this investment is urgently needed. They expect these grants will inspire pride in the city, improve quality of life, and lead to economic growth for Torrington. 

“This funding will provide an opportunity for the creative thinkers in Torrington to undertake projects that highlight the vibrant culture that lives here,” remarks Steph Burr, Executive Director of the Arts Council. “This is a rare opportunity because this type of small project funding has never been offered to artists at the city level before.  We hope that applicants challenge themselves to create something wonderful so we can continue to see projects like this funded in the future.”

Northwest CT Arts Council is seeking proposals that: 

• Engage the community: Projects must be free and open to the public and present a clear, realistic plan for audience engagement. Furthermore, proposals should be crafted around concepts and ideas that are connected and significant to the local community. 
• Encourage collaboration: Projects that draw on shared resources and strengthen connections between creative people and places are encouraged. 
• Celebrate and Elevate Torrington: Projects should take steps to help revitalize downtown, celebrate the culture of the city, and/or improve quality of life for residents. 

Torrington Microgrants, ranging from $500 - $2,500, will be open to Torrington-based artists, artist collectives, musicians, performers, arts organizations, community groups, social service organizations, and local businesses. The Arts Council hopes to see applicants and proposals as diverse as the community in Torrington! They invite proposals that represent any artistic discipline from applicants of all experience levels and ages. 

Grants will be awarded in two cycles. NWCT Arts Council will begin accepting applications for the first cycle beginning on February 6, 2023. The deadline to apply for the first cycle is April 7, 2023.  To learn more about Torrington Microgrants, click here.