Deadline: 03-Jun-2026
The Circulation and Touring grant supports Canadian artists, artistic groups, and arts organizations in presenting and touring their work nationally and internationally. Funding of up to $200,000 per project helps expand audience reach, foster cultural exchange, and strengthen professional networks within the arts sector.
What is the Circulation and Touring Grant?
The Circulation and Touring grant is part of the Arts Across Canada and Abroad program, designed to support the movement and presentation of Canadian artistic works beyond local communities. The grant focuses on:
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Touring or circulating artists, exhibitions, and performances
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Activities linked to artistic exchange and networking
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Enhancing visibility and engagement with audiences nationally and internationally
The program helps Canadian artists and organizations build professional opportunities, gain exposure, and foster cultural exchange with diverse audiences.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
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Individual artists or arts workers
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First Nations, Inuit, or Métis artists or cultural workers
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Artistic groups, collectives, or organizations
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Presenting organizations and not-for-profit cultural institutions
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Foreign arts festivals, biennales, or book fairs
Organizations currently receiving core grants are also eligible to apply. Applicants must have the rights to present the works included in the project.
What Activities Are Eligible?
Eligible activities include:
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Circulation or touring of artists, exhibitions, or artistic works to one or more destinations
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Collaborative projects that involve partnerships with foreign presenters for international touring
Activities not supported include:
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Circulation of works the applicant does not own or have rights to present
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Presenting works at the applicant’s own venue, festival, or event in Canada
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Self-presented projects abroad without contributions from a foreign host or partner
Funding and Limits
Applicants can request:
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Up to $200,000 per application, covering a maximum of 50% of total eligible project costs
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A maximum of $400,000 per organization or individual per year
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Up to six applications per calendar year
Funding helps cover costs associated with touring, artist mobility, production, logistics, and collaboration expenses.
Why It Matters
The Circulation and Touring grant enables Canadian artists and organizations to:
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Reach new audiences across Canada and internationally
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Strengthen professional networks and collaborations
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Promote Canadian creativity, innovation, and excellence
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Foster meaningful cultural exchanges that benefit communities and artists
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Check that your organization, collective, or individual project qualifies for the grant. Ensure you have the rights to present or circulate the artistic work.
Step 2: Prepare Project Details
Outline the proposed circulation or touring plan, destinations, partners, and expected outcomes. Include a budget showing the requested grant amount and total project costs.
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply through the official Arts Across Canada portal, providing all supporting documentation and project details. Ensure adherence to the eligible activities and funding rules.
Step 4: Review and Award
Applications are evaluated based on artistic quality, potential audience reach, partnerships, and project feasibility. Successful projects receive funding to support national and international circulation and touring.
Tips and Common Mistakes
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Do not include works you do not own or have rights to present
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Avoid submitting projects for self-presented events in Canada or abroad without a host partner
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Ensure your budget aligns with the 50% maximum funding rule
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Include clear partnership agreements for international touring
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible to apply? Individual artists, artistic groups, arts organizations, and foreign arts festivals with proper rights.
2. Can projects include self-presented events? No, only circulation to external venues or events is supported.
3. What is the maximum grant per project? Up to $200,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs.
4. How many applications can an organization submit? Up to six applications per calendar year, with a maximum of $400,000 funding per year.
5. Are foreign contributions required for international tours? Yes, touring abroad must include financial support from a foreign presenter or partner.
6. Can I circulate works I do not own? No, applicants must have the rights to present the works.
7. Is this grant part of a larger program? Yes, it is part of Arts Across Canada and Abroad, supporting national and international engagement.
Conclusion
The Circulation and Touring grant empowers Canadian artists and arts organizations to present work nationally and internationally, build professional networks, and engage audiences across diverse communities. Applicants should ensure eligibility, project ownership, and collaboration plans to maximize the impact of this funding opportunity.
For more information, visit Canada Council for the Arts.