Open Call for Theatre Individual Project Funding (Canada)

Deadline: 01-Sep-2026

The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) is offering Theatre Individual Project Funding to support Alberta-based artists, arts administrators, and ensembles working on theatre or performance art projects. Eligible applicants can receive up to $18,000, covering up to 100% of project expenses, including production, training, research, and marketing activities.

Overview

The Theatre Individual Project Funding program supports the professional development and creative work of individual artists, arts administrators, and artist collectives in Alberta.

The funding aims to help artists carry out specific theatre or performance art projects, enabling them to create new work, conduct research, develop skills, and promote their artistic practice.

The program is administered by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, which works to strengthen Alberta’s arts sector by providing financial support and encouraging diverse artistic voices.

Funding Amount

Eligible applicants may receive up to $18,000.

Applicants can request funding for up to 100 percent of eligible project expenses directly related to implementing the proposed project.

In addition, the program allows limited support for basic living expenses, which may be funded up to $3,000 per month during the project period.

Eligible Expenses

Funding can be used for a wide range of project-related costs necessary for the successful implementation of theatre or performance art projects.

Eligible expenses may include:

• Fees for contracted artists and technicians

• Commission fees

• Production costs

• Promotion and publicity

• Transportation and accommodation

• Tuition or training fees

• Royalties

• Administrative or contract fees

• Supplies and materials required for the project

Basic living or subsistence costs may also be covered, including:

• Housing

• Local transportation

• Food

• Childcare

• Dependent care

However, subsistence expenses are capped at $3,000 per month.

Ineligible Activities and Expenses

Certain activities and costs are not supported under this funding program.

Ineligible expenses include:

• Capital purchases such as buildings or property

• Capital development projects

• Studio construction or renovations

• Recreational training activities

• Projects conducted to fulfill academic credit or thesis requirements

• Projects that are primarily commercial in nature

• Contracts for ongoing activities similar to an artist’s regular commissioned work

• Expenses incurred before the application submission

• Grant writer fees

Applicants should ensure that their project clearly aligns with the program’s artistic and professional development objectives.

Types of Eligible Projects

The program supports several types of theatre and performance art activities.

1. Art Production Projects

Projects may involve the development, creation, and production of theatre or performance art works within a defined project phase.

These activities can include:

• Script development

• Performance creation

• Rehearsal and staging processes

• Production of new theatrical works

2. Marketing and Audience Development

Applicants may also seek funding for marketing activities that promote theatre or performance art projects.

These activities may include:

• Promotional campaigns

• Audience development initiatives

• Advertising theatre productions created by Alberta artists

3. Research Projects

Funding can support research activities that contribute to the development of future theatre or performance art works.

Research activities may involve:

• Artistic exploration

• Cultural research

• Concept development for upcoming projects

4. Training and Career Development

The program also supports professional development for theatre and performance artists.

Eligible activities may include:

• Workshops

• Master classes

• Mentorship programs

• Professional courses

• Retreats

• Formal training programs in theatre or performing arts administration

These opportunities help artists strengthen their skills and expand their professional networks.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Individual Alberta artists

• Arts administrators

• Artist ensembles or collectives

Applicants must meet several residency and eligibility requirements.

Residency Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or Protected Persons

• Hold an open work or study permit from inside Canada, if applicable

• Have maintained primary residence in Alberta for at least one full year before applying

• Ordinarily live in Alberta for at least six months each year, except when attending formal studies

Additional Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must also:

• Be in good standing with the Alberta Foundation for the Arts

• Have no outstanding reporting obligations from previous grants

• Ensure that any previous project reports have been approved before applying again

Applicants applying as individuals or collectives must not be incorporated under provincial or federal legislation.

Applying as a Collective or Ensemble

Collaborating artists, ensembles, or collectives may apply if all project co-owners meet the eligibility criteria.

Project co-owners are individuals who:

• Share ownership or copyright of the work

• Have a significant financial stake in the project

Examples of potential project co-owners include:

• Directors

• Playwrights

• Choreographers

• Lyricists

• Composers

Contributors vs. Co-Owners

Certain participants in the project are considered contributors rather than co-owners.

These may include:

• Dramaturgs

• Performers

• Designers

• Stage managers

• Mentors

• Elders

• Knowledge Keepers

They are generally not considered project co-owners unless they retain ownership or copyright in the created work.

Lead Applicant Requirement

Projects with multiple co-owners must designate a lead applicant.

The lead applicant is responsible for:

• Submitting the application

• Listing all project co-owners

• Managing the project funding if awarded

• Completing required financial and activity reports

This structure ensures clear accountability for project management.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The Alberta Foundation for the Arts encourages applications from artists belonging to diverse and underrepresented communities.

These include:

• Indigenous peoples

• Racialized communities

• Women

• People with disabilities

• Members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community

The program recognizes that diverse perspectives enrich the performing arts sector and strengthen Alberta’s cultural landscape.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants can improve their chances by focusing on key elements.

• Clearly define the project goals and timeline

• Demonstrate the artistic value and impact of the project

• Provide a detailed and realistic budget

• Explain how the project supports professional growth

• Highlight relevant experience and past work

Strong proposals typically show creative originality and clear planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding is available through this program?

Applicants may receive up to $18,000 to support their theatre or performance art project.

2. Can the grant cover all project costs?

Yes. Applicants may request funding for up to 100 percent of eligible expenses.

3. Are living expenses eligible under this funding?

Yes. Basic living expenses such as housing and food may be supported up to $3,000 per month.

4. Can collectives or ensembles apply?

Yes. Artist ensembles or collectives may apply if all project co-owners meet eligibility requirements.

5. Are marketing activities eligible?

Yes. Projects that promote theatre work or build audiences for Alberta artists are eligible.

6. Can funding support professional training?

Yes. Funding may support workshops, mentorships, master classes, and professional courses related to theatre and performing arts.

7. Are incorporated organizations eligible?

No. Applicants must apply as individuals, ensembles, or collectives that are not incorporated.

Conclusion

The Theatre Individual Project Funding program provides significant support for Alberta-based theatre and performance artists seeking to develop new work, conduct research, or strengthen their professional skills. With up to $18,000 available, the funding helps artists bring creative ideas to life while building sustainable careers in the performing arts.

By encouraging artistic innovation, professional development, and diverse participation, the program plays an important role in strengthening Alberta’s theatre and performance art community.

For more information, visit Alberta Foundation for the Arts.