Eastern States Exposition (ESE) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that grows by the support of its guests and surrounding populace. In turn, ESE is proud to give back to the community that keeps its mission alive by supporting similar causes in the name of education, agriculture and community betterment.

Since 1916, ESE has remained true to the vision of its founder, Joshua L. Brooks, celebrating agriculture, mentoring young people and preserving New England’s history and tradition. If you are a representative from a fellow not-for-profit organization seeking support for an upcoming event or endeavor that echoes these beliefs, assess the following criteria and send an application through the request form below.

• Your organization must retain IRS-designated not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status.
• Your organization must service your designated cause within one of the six New England states (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Vermont or New Hampshire), with priority for immediate surrounding community of Greater Springfield.
• Your application must include supporting documents about your event or goal (i.e. advertising materials, budget, location, date, time and other sponsors, if applicable).
• Your application must include a mission statement for your organization.
• Your organization must have been ratified more than one (1) year since the date of your application submission.
• If you are seeking funding on behalf of a profit entity or for individual reasons, this application is likely not conducive to your cause.
• Your organization’s focus area should fall under one or more of the following categories: Agriculture, Creative Arts, Education, Environmental/Animal, Food Security, Health or General Human Services.

To request tickets or vouchers for The Big E, September 12-28, 2025, the deadline to apply for a donation is August 15, 2025, and your event must take place prior to August 22, 2025.

If your organization is based in West Springfield, Mass., you can apply for funding from the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) Trust through the Town of West Springfield. Athletic teams seeking donations or financial support must apply for a Trust grant. For more information, visit TownofWestSpringfield.org.

Please note that ESE receives numerous applications annually. As we review your submission, we may request additional information about your initiative. Be sure your point of contact is prepared to respond to follow-up correspondence. ESE reserves the right to decline requests for any reason. If your application is declined, regrets may not be sent.

Donation Request Form