Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission is accepting applications for its Fiscal Year 2026 Mercer County 250th Implementation Mini-Grant Program, supporting projects that commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Mercer County-based nonprofit organizations may apply for funding to support programs, events, and initiatives that interpret, preserve, and present the county’s role in the nation’s founding era.
The program is designed to help bring well-developed concepts to life or expand existing initiatives tied to the anniversary. Projects will be reviewed by an independent panel of history professionals, with funding awarded to proposals that demonstrate strong historical relevance, community engagement, and feasibility. Funded projects must be completed within calendar year 2026.
The mini-grant initiative is part of a broader countywide effort to coordinate programming around the nation’s semiquincentennial, with municipalities, historical societies, and cultural organizations expected to play a central role in delivering events and educational outreach. Organizers are encouraging proposals that highlight lesser-known stories, diverse perspectives, and local connections to the Revolutionary War period.
Eligible projects may include public programs, exhibits, performances, interpretive installations, and educational initiatives designed to engage a wide audience. The county is particularly interested in projects that can draw residents and visitors to historic sites, support tourism, and create lasting community value beyond the anniversary year.
Applications are due April 17. For information or to apply, visit tinyurl.com/MercerHistoryRegrants or contactcjohnstone@mercercounty.org or 609-989-6418.
Entrepreneurship & Scholarship Programs for Veterans
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship program for graduating high school seniors. The program recognizes students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, and an understanding of the Vietnam War era and its broader impact on American society.
Applicants are required to submit materials outlining their qualifications, including their academic record, community involvement, and perspective on the Vietnam War era. Awards are intended to support students as they pursue higher education at colleges, universities, or other post-secondary institutions.
Applications are due April 24. Apply at njvvmf.org.
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Rider University is accepting applications for its Veteran Entrepreneurship Training program, a free six-week program designed to help veterans, their spouses, and dependents develop a business concept or expand an existing venture. Offered through Rider’s Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, the program provides structured instruction and hands-on guidance.
Participants receive training in business planning, feasibility analysis, and market development, along with access to faculty expertise, business mentors, and university resources. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants to ensure individualized feedback and support throughout the program.
Sessions run Wednesday evenings May 13 through June 24 in Lawrenceville. Applications are open through May 8 or until capacity is reached. Apply at rider.edu/vep.
Princeton Affordable Housing Lottery
Princeton Community Housing is accepting preliminary applications for nine affordable rental units at its new 195 Nassau Street community in downtown Princeton. Located along the Nassau Street corridor, the development provides convenient access to Princeton University, public transportation, and local businesses.
A random selection lottery will determine placement for qualified households. Preference will be given to residents and workers of Mercer, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. Applicants must meet income and eligibility requirements, with selected households contacted to complete the leasing process and others placed on a waiting list for future openings.
The project is part of ongoing efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities in Princeton, where demand continues to exceed available inventory. The development includes modern amenities and is intended to provide long-term, income-restricted housing in a centrally located, walkable area close to employment, education, and services.
Applications are due May 8 at 5 p.m. Apply at pchhomes.org or call 609-924-3822 ext. 2.
Youth Orchestra Auditions
The Youth Orchestra of Bucks County is holding auditions for its 2026–27 season, with in-person auditions scheduled for May 16 and 17 for students in grades 3–12. The program places students into ensembles based on ability level, including concert bands, full orchestras, and string ensembles.
Participants rehearse regularly and perform in public concerts throughout the season under the direction of professional musicians. Video auditions are also accepted for those unable to attend in person, with a priority deadline of June 1. Apply at yobc.org.
Open Auditions: ‘The Little Mermaid’
Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College and Yardley Players Theatre Company are casting Disney’s The Little Mermaid, with rehearsals underway and performances scheduled for July 10–19 on the West Windsor campus.
The production is seeking performers ages 11 and up for a wide range of principal and ensemble roles, including Prince Eric, Sebastian, Ursula, Triton, Flounder, Scuttle, and featured ensemble tracks. All roles are open to performers of all backgrounds, with a focus on creating an inclusive and diverse cast. The role of Ariel has already been cast.
Rehearsals continue throughout the spring and summer, typically meeting multiple times per week with increased frequency closer to performances. The production includes large ensemble musical numbers, choreography, and technical staging, with opportunities for both experienced performers and those newer to the stage.
Auditions are by appointment and require preparation of a short musical selection (16–32 bars) with sheet music. An accompanist is provided, and cold readings may be included. Headshot, résumé, and audition materials are required.
For information or to request an appointment, visit kelsey.mccc.edu or contact the production team at DirectorKristyDavis@gmail.com.
Edison Patent Awards Nominations
The Research & Development Council of New Jersey is accepting nominations for the Edison Patent Awards, honoring individuals and organizations whose patented ideas are driving progress across industries. The awards recognize innovation across a wide range of fields, with entries evaluated based on originality, impact, and contribution to advancing science and technology.
Nominations are due May 22. Submit at rdnj.org.
Youth Theatre Camp
Bucks County Playhouse is accepting registrations for a two-week theatre camp culminating in a production of Disney’s Descendants. Open to rising second- through fourth-grade students, the program provides a full theatrical experience including auditions, rehearsals, and performance.
Participants receive instruction in acting, singing, and stage performance while working toward a final production presented on stage. Tuition is $900, with a 50 percent deposit required at registration and the balance due by May 15. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. Register at brtstage.org.
Parks Volunteer Opportunities
Middlesex County Office of Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for a series of spring conservation projects across county parks from April through June. Opportunities include shoreline cleanup, trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and environmental restoration efforts.
Volunteer days include a Spring Spruce Up at Thompson Park on May 16 and National Trails Day projects at Ireland Brook Conservation Area on June 6, among others. Registration is required.
For information or to sign up, contact Julia DeRosso at 732-745-8147 or Julia.DeRosso@co.middlesex.nj.us.
Rutgers Aspiring Leaders Program
The Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions is accepting applications for its MSI Aspiring Leaders program, a leadership development and mentoring initiative for mid-career professionals in higher education, nonprofit, and business sectors.
The program includes an in-person leadership forum in October followed by approximately 18 months of mentorship and professional development. Sessions focus on strategic decision-making, fundraising, crisis management, and leadership advancement.
For information or to apply, visit cmsi.gse.rutgers.edu/aspiring-leaders.
MCLS Poetry Contest
The Mercer County Library System is accepting entries for its annual poetry contest, open to children, teens, and adults. Submissions are judged by age group, with winning entries recognized and published by the library system.
Entries must be original work. Deadline is April 30. For information or to submit, visit mcl.org.
