The Mass Cultural Council is a state agency that promotes excellence, inclusion, education, and diversity in the arts, humanities, and sciences to foster a rich cultural life for all Massachusetts residents and contributes to the vitality of our communities and economy. The Council pursues this mission through a wide range of grants, initiatives, and advocacy for artists, communities, organizations, and schools. We believe in the power of culture. Working through the arts, humanities, and sciences, culture is a dynamic force for enriching communities, growing the economy, increasing accessibility, and fostering individual creativity. Culture is intrinsically valuable and unique in its ability to lift the human spirit. We recognize the essential role that a rich cultural life plays in communities and the lives of individuals. To invest in our cultural life is to invest in our shared future. We partner with artists, communities, organizations, and schools to unleash the power of culture across the Commonwealth. We envision a Commonwealth where: • Culture elevates the quality of life and well-being of all communities • Culture drives growth and opportunity through the creative economy • Culture is inclusive, equitable, and embraces our diversity • Culture empowers a new generation through creative youth development and education