Entries open for Small Grant Accessibility Program (Canada)

The SaskCulture Small Grant Accessibility Program (SGAP) provides funding of up to $2,000 to support grassroots, innovative, and culturally inclusive initiatives across Saskatchewan. SGAP prioritizes first-time applicants, youth-led projects, Indigenous and ethnocultural initiatives, and activities that improve accessibility, inclusion, and professional development within the cultural sector.

Overview

The Small Grant Accessibility Program (SGAP) by SaskCulture is designed to support small-scale, innovative cultural initiatives that respond to emergent opportunities, promote accessibility, and strengthen cultural participation across Saskatchewan. The program focuses on:

• Grassroots and first-time applicants.

• Projects that enhance equity and inclusion.

• Initiatives that respond to time-sensitive cultural opportunities.

• Building capacity and professional development within cultural organizations.

Key Objectives

• Support new or under-served organizations not recently funded by SaskCulture.

• Encourage innovative and culturally meaningful ideas.

• Promote inclusive participation, particularly for Indigenous, ethnocultural, 2SLGBTQ+, and disabled communities.

• Strengthen youth leadership and professional development.

• Foster projects in northern, rural, and underrepresented communities.

• Support initiatives related to Truth and Reconciliation, anti-racism, and anti-oppression training.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

1. Incorporated non-profits:

   • Primarily cultural mandate in arts, heritage, multiculturalism, or cultural industries, or significant cultural engagement.

   • In good standing with the Information Services Corporation and SaskCulture.

2. Unincorporated non-profits:

   • Demonstrate a cultural mandate or significant cultural engagement.

   • Recommended to have a Canadian bank account in the organization’s name.

   • May apply through a sponsoring organization (incorporated non-profit, First Nation, Tribal Council, Municipality, or Métis Local) if a bank account is unavailable.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant request: $2,000 toward eligible expenses.

• Total initiative budget must not exceed $5,000.

• Small-scale projects are defined as those within the budget limit or with additional funding already confirmed.

• Eligible expenses include:

  • Project materials and supplies

  • Event costs

  • Accessibility accommodations

  • Youth engagement and leadership activities

  • Professional development initiatives

How to Apply

1. Develop your project: Define your cultural initiative, target audience, and intended outcomes.

2. Prepare a budget: Ensure your total project cost does not exceed $5,000 and clearly itemize expenses.

3. Demonstrate alignment with SGAP objectives: Highlight how your project improves accessibility, inclusion, youth engagement, or equity.

4. Confirm eligibility: Ensure your organization meets the criteria for incorporated or unincorporated non-profits.

5. Submit your application: Complete the SGAP application form and attach all required documentation.

Assessment Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Alignment with SGAP objectives (innovation, accessibility, inclusion)

• Impact and community engagement

• Feasibility and planning (clear timelines, deliverables, and budgets)

• Priority considerations:

  • Youth-led initiatives

  • Indigenous, ethnocultural, 2SLGBTQ+, or disability focus

  • Northern, rural, or underserved communities

  • Projects addressing Truth and Reconciliation, Anti-Racism, or Anti-Oppression professional development

Tips for Successful Applications

• Prioritize clear, concise project plans with detailed budgets.

• Highlight first-time or under-served status.

• Emphasize inclusion, equity, and accessibility in your project design.

• Include youth leadership or professional development elements if applicable.

• Provide evidence of community engagement or partnerships.

FAQ

1. Who can apply for SGAP funding?
Incorporated and unincorporated non-profit organizations in Saskatchewan with a cultural mandate or significant cultural engagement.

2. What is the maximum funding available?
Applicants may request up to $2,000, with total project budgets not exceeding $5,000.

3. Are youth-led initiatives prioritized?
Yes, SGAP gives priority to youth leadership and professional development initiatives.

4. Can unincorporated organizations apply directly?
Yes, but if they lack a bank account, they must apply through an eligible sponsoring organization.

5. Which projects are prioritized?
Projects led by first-time applicants, Indigenous, ethnocultural, 2SLGBTQ+, or disability-focused projects, and initiatives in underserved regions.

6. Can SGAP fund Truth and Reconciliation or anti-racism projects?
Yes, professional development projects focused on Truth and Reconciliation, Anti-Racism, or Anti-Oppression are encouraged.

7. Are ongoing or previously funded projects eligible?
Priority is given to new or under-served organizations that have not recently received SaskCulture funding.

Conclusion

The SaskCulture Small Grant Accessibility Program (SGAP) empowers small-scale, culturally meaningful projects across Saskatchewan. By supporting first-time applicants, youth leadership, accessibility, and inclusion, SGAP strengthens the cultural sector and enables communities to engage in innovative, equitable, and socially impactful cultural activities.