News release: Millions in grant funding for Alberta’s art sector

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AFA NewsCommunity News All disciplines Funding

Calgary Opera performers Alessia Vitali (singer) and Jonathan Brandani (pianist) perform before the announcement

Image: Calgary Opera performers Alessia Vitali (singer) and Jonathan Brandani (pianist) perform at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

On January 23, the Honourable Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women was joined by AFA Chair Cynthia P. Moore to announce how increased provincial arts funding this year is supporting Alberta artists and arts organizations. Watch:

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So far this fiscal year, Alberta’s government has provided $21.2 million in grant funding for 304 arts-based organizations and 422 individual artists, with more funding to be approved before the fiscal year is over. This represents a 40 per cent increase in the number of grants provided compared to this time in 2023.  

“Alberta is proud to be home to talented artists in every corner of the province, and the arts sector remains a significant contributor to Alberta’s economy and quality of life. Each year, the arts sector contributes more than $1.2 billion in GDP and keeps more than 17,000 Albertans employed. When the arts thrive, Alberta thrives.”   

Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women 

This additional funding commitment has already had an impact on how the AFA has been able to distribute dollars to local artists, with an increase to the maximum eligible grant amount for individual artists from $15,000 to $18,000. 

“The AFA is thrilled by the funding commitment made by Alberta’s government to increase support for the arts community. This has allowed us to support even more Alberta artists this year and providing important support for arts organizations across the province. The AFA will continue to prioritize and invest in artists, art, and cultural materials in line with our mandate and government’s priorities.” 

Cynthia Moore, board chair, Alberta Foundation for the Arts 

Read the full news release on Alberta.ca. 

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Artists, the next deadline for Individual Project Grants is March 3, 2025. Find funding to support your next art project. 

AFA Individual Project Grants can provide funding through four broad categories:

  • art production (art creation)
  • research
  • marketing
  • training and career development

Explore our resources to help you develop you AFA grant application. 

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