Introducing the Light of the North Cultural Grants
There’s something we’ve believed since day one of PoutineFest. This was never just about fries, curds, and gravy. It’s about culture that means so much to our region. It’s about the stories, traditions, and communities that shaped New England and still live here today.
That’s why we’re incredibly excited to introduce the Light of the North Cultural Grants.This is a new chapter for us. And more importantly, it’s a step toward something bigger.
A More Inclusive Future for Our Culture
As PoutineFest has grown, one thing has become clear. There are so many people out there doing meaningful work to keep Francophone cultures alive. Schools, nonprofits, artists, community organizers, small groups with big ideas. But not all of them have access to the resources they need. The Light of the North Cultural Grants are about opening that door wider.
We want to support projects across New England that bring this culture into public life. That means language, food traditions, music, storytelling, history, and new ideas that push things forward. This is about inclusivity. Not just who gets to participate, but who gets to lead, create, and share.
Turning Energy Into Action
Through the Light of the North Fund, we’ll be supporting projects that celebrate and strengthen Francophone culture across the region.
We’re looking for ideas that:
Bring people together
Reach beyond the usual circles
Create real, public experiences of our culture
This can be many things! Something brand new we haven’t even thought of yet. If it helps our culture grow and thrive, we want to hear about it.
Who This Is For?
This isn’t limited to one type of organization. Who is Eligible?
Nonprofits
Community Groups
Schools
Artists
Independent Organizers
If you’re doing work that celebrates francophone culture and creates a real community impact, this is for you. Because culture doesn’t live in one place. It lives everywhere people are willing to carry it forward.
Why This Matters
We’ve seen what happens when people show up. We’ve seen it at PoutineFest. Thousands of people connecting over something that feels familiar, something that feels like home, even if they didn’t grow up with it.
Now imagine that same energy happening year-round, across New England. That’s the vision behind Light of the North. Not just celebrating culture once a year, but helping it live, evolve, and expand every single day.
What Comes Next
If you’ve been thinking about creating something…this is your moment. Our team across the region is proud of what PoutineFest has become. But this is about what comes next. Let’s build it together!
Light of the North is a cultural grant initiative supported through donor-advised funding and nonprofit partnerships.