Deadline: 13-Apr-2026

The Newcomer and Refugee Arts Engagement program offers funding to arts-based projects that foster inclusion and integration of newcomer and refugee communities in Toronto. Grants provide $20,000 for eligible projects, with additional accessibility support of up to $5,000 for Deaf artists or artists with disabilities. Eligible applicants include non-profits and artist collectives working in collaboration with newcomer and refugee participants.

Overview

The Newcomer and Refugee Arts Engagement program supports arts initiatives that promote social inclusion, equity, and community collaboration in Toronto. Funded projects aim to connect newcomer and refugee communities with professional artists, facilitating meaningful cultural exchange and integration.

Program Goals

The program focuses on:

• Engaging newcomer and refugee communities through arts-based projects
• Supporting social integration and inclusion
• Promoting equitable access to funding for diverse and underrepresented communities
• Encouraging participation from equity-seeking groups, including:
  • Black, Indigenous, and artists of colour
  • Artists who are Deaf or have disabilities
  • 2SLGBTQIAP artists
  • Newcomer and refugee artists
  • Artists working outside Toronto’s downtown core
• Strengthening community collaboration between professional artists and newcomer populations

Funding Details

• Base Grant: $20,000 (covers up to 100% of eligible project costs)
• Accessibility Grant: Up to $5,000 for projects involving Deaf artists or artists with disabilities
  • Supports interpretation, captioning, support workers, and accessibility equipment
  • Can be requested at any stage of the project starting in 2026

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Incorporated non-profit organizations operating in Toronto
• Unincorporated artist collectives (must include at least two professional artists)
• Applicants must demonstrate:
  • Experience working with newcomer and refugee communities
  • A clear administrative and financial plan for project delivery
  • Residency within Toronto to ensure local representation

Project Requirements

• Location: Projects must take place within Toronto
• Timeline:
  • Start date no earlier than July 1
  • Minimum duration: 3 months
  • Completion within 2 years of notification
• Activities: Must involve collaboration between professional artists and newcomer/refugee participants
• Focus: Projects must foster meaningful engagement, cultural exchange, and inclusion

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility as a nonprofit organization or artist collective.
2. Develop a project plan that includes:
   • Clear objectives and outcomes
   • Engagement strategies for newcomer and refugee communities
   • Timeline, budget, and roles of all collaborators
3. Submit the application through the program’s official portal or contact points.
4. For accessibility support, submit a separate Accessibility Grant request if needed.
5. Await notification of award and proceed with project implementation following approval.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Ensure collaboration with newcomer or refugee participants is central to the project.
• Include detailed budget justification for all requested funds.
• Clearly outline roles and responsibilities within collectives or partnerships.
• Apply for the Accessibility Grant if Deaf artists or artists with disabilities are involved.
• Avoid proposing projects outside Toronto or timelines shorter than three months.

FAQ

1. Can an individual artist apply?
No, applicants must be an incorporated nonprofit or an unincorporated artist collective of at least two professional artists.

2. What is the maximum grant amount?

• Base Grant: $20,000
• Accessibility Grant: $5,000 (if applicable)

3. Can projects start before July 1?
No, projects must begin no earlier than July 1.

4. Are projects outside Toronto eligible?
No, all activities must take place within Toronto.

5. How long can projects run?
Projects must run at least three months and be completed within two years of the notification letter.

6. Can accessibility support be requested mid-project?
Yes, starting in 2026, Accessibility Grant requests can be submitted at any stage.

7. What types of artists are prioritized?
Equity-seeking and underrepresented artists, including Black, Indigenous, artists of colour, 2SLGBTQIAP, Deaf or disabled artists, newcomers, and refugee artists.

Conclusion

The Newcomer and Refugee Arts Engagement program provides a meaningful opportunity for arts organizations and collectives in Toronto to foster inclusion, equity, and cultural exchange. With funding of $20,000 and additional accessibility support, the program empowers professional artists to create projects that strengthen newcomer and refugee communities while promoting social integration and collaboration.

For more information, visit Toronto Arts Council.