Deadline: 03-Mar-2026
The Winnipeg Arts Council’s Individual Artist Grant Program supports Winnipeg-based artists in creating, developing, and presenting new work across any artistic discipline. Grants range from $3,000 for emerging artists to $7,000 for mid-career and established professionals, covering project-related costs such as living expenses, studio rental, travel, and artistic assistance. The program emphasizes artistic merit, project viability, and the professional development of the applicant.
Overview
The Individual Artist Grant Program provides funding to support:
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Creation of new work in any art form
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Development, production, curation, or exhibition of works of art
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Professional growth and artistic development for Winnipeg-based artists
Grant Levels and Amounts
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Emerging Artists: Up to $3,000
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Mid-career & Established Artists: Up to $7,000
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Artists who are Deaf, living with disabilities, or mental illness may qualify for additional access support
Eligible Expenses
Grants may cover:
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Living expenses during the project
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Workspace or studio rental
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Costs for public presentation of work
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Project-specific expenses such as research, travel, artistic or editorial assistance, and materials rental
Note: Expenses must be incurred within the grant period. Equipment purchases are generally not eligible unless integral to the artistic process.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be professional artists working individually or in inter-/multi-disciplinary capacities
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Be Canadian citizens or permanent residents
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Reside and work in the City of Winnipeg for at least 12 months prior to application and throughout the project
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Demonstrate a concentrated commitment to the proposed project
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Dedicate themselves to the professional practice of art
Selection Process
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Applications are reviewed by an independent jury of qualified arts professionals
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Evaluation considers:
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Artistic merit of past work
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Potential artistic merit and impact of the proposed project
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Viability of the project budget
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Applicant’s capacity to complete the project
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Jury recommendations are ratified by the Board of the Winnipeg Arts Council
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No appeal process is available
Application Process
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Applications must be submitted online through the GoSmart system
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Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered
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Artists are encouraged to consult with Winnipeg Arts Council staff before submission to confirm eligibility and program level
Project Timeline
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Grant periods may start after notification and extend for up to 18 months
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Projects must start no earlier than June 3, 2026 and end no later than November 30, 2027
Key Dates
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Next Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 11:59 PM
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Project Duration: Maximum 18 months
Tips for Applicants
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Choose the grant level based on your experience in the discipline, not the project cost
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Provide a clear budget justification for each requested expense
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Highlight the artistic merit and professional impact of your project
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Reach out to staff early to confirm eligibility and program fit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Canadian citizens or permanent residents living and working in Winnipeg for at least 12 months, engaged in professional artistic practice.
2. What types of projects are funded?
Creation, development, production, curation, or exhibition of new work across any artistic discipline.
3. Can the grant cover equipment purchases?
Only if equipment is integral to the artistic process; otherwise, equipment purchases are ineligible.
4. How are applications evaluated?
Jury evaluates artistic merit, project potential, budget viability, and applicant’s ability to complete the project.
5. Can late applications be considered?
No, incomplete or late applications are not accepted.
6. Are there multiple deadlines each year?
Yes, the program has two annual deadlines: early March and early September.
7. How long can a funded project run?
Projects can run up to 18 months from the start date, beginning after grant notification.
Conclusion
The Winnipeg Arts Council Individual Artist Grant Program empowers local artists to create, develop, and present new work while advancing their professional growth. By supporting both emerging and established artists, the program strengthens Winnipeg’s cultural ecosystem and encourages high-quality, innovative artistic practice.
For more information, visit Winnipeg Arts Council.