Deadline: 04-Aug-2026
The Visual and Media Arts Projects: Presentation program offers funding of up to $15,000 to support the exhibition and distribution of contemporary visual and media arts in Toronto. It is open to non-profit organizations, collectives, and individual curators/programmers for time-limited projects presented in a clear curatorial or critical framework.
About the Program
This funding opportunity supports projects that strengthen Toronto’s visual and media arts sector through the presentation and public engagement of contemporary work.
The program funds time-limited projects that must take place in Toronto or be produced there for online distribution.
Eligible Project Types
Supported activities may include:
- Exhibitions presented within a curatorial or critical framework
- Screening series, including film and video festivals featuring Toronto artists
- Lecture series that contribute to contemporary visual and media arts discourse
- Residency programs
- Workshop series that support artistic development and engagement
- Digitally delivered projects, where appropriate
All projects must show a clearly defined curatorial or critical context.
Funding Available
- Maximum request: $15,000
Important points:
- Grants awarded may be less than the amount requested
- The program does not provide full project funding
- Applicants must show additional revenue sources
These other sources may include:
- Cash contributions
- Confirmed funding from other sources
- Donated goods and services (in-kind support)
Eligible Budget Costs
Project budgets may include:
- Artist fees (mandatory)
- Production costs
- Technical costs
- Marketing and outreach
- Administrative expenses
- Childcare costs
Accessibility Grant
Projects involving Deaf artists or artists with disabilities may also apply for an additional:
- Accessibility Grant of up to $5,000
This can help cover accessibility-related costs such as:
- Interpretation
- Captioning
- Support services
- Other access needs
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Incorporated non-profit organizations
- Unincorporated collectives operating on a not-for-profit basis
- Individual curators or programmers residing in Toronto
All applicants must:
- Be based in Toronto
- Demonstrate professional artistic practice
- Propose a project that has not started before adjudication
Project Timeline Rules
- Projects must not begin before adjudication
- Approved projects must be completed within 2 years of receiving the grant
Equity and Inclusion Focus
The program strongly encourages applications from:
- Indigenous artists
- Black artists
- Artists of colour
- Deaf artists
- Artists with disabilities
- 2SLGBTQIAP artists
- Newcomers
- Refugees
- Emerging artists
This reflects the program’s commitment to equity, access, and representation in Toronto’s arts ecosystem.
What Makes a Strong Application?
A competitive proposal should show:
- A clear curatorial or critical framework
- Strong artistic relevance to contemporary visual/media arts
- A realistic and well-supported budget
- Mandatory artist fees
- Clear evidence of other revenue sources
- A strong audience development plan
- A feasible delivery timeline in Toronto or through Toronto-based digital presentation
Quick Facts
- Program: Visual and Media Arts Projects: Presentation
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- Maximum Grant: $15,000
- Accessibility Grant: Up to $5,000
- Eligible Applicants: Non-profit organizations, collectives, individual curators/programmers
- Project Types: Exhibitions, screenings, lectures, residencies, workshops, digital presentations
- Project Start Rule: Must not begin before adjudication
- Completion Deadline: Within 2 years of grant approval
FAQ
1. How much funding can applicants request?
Applicants may request up to $15,000, though the final award may be lower.
2. Does the program fully fund projects?
No. The program does not provide full project funding, so applicants must show additional revenue sources.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Eligible projects include exhibitions, screening series, lecture series, residencies, workshops, and digital presentations within a clear curatorial or critical framework.
4. Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Incorporated non-profit organizations
- Unincorporated not-for-profit collectives
- Individual curators or programmers living in Toronto
5. Is there additional support for accessibility?
Yes. Projects involving Deaf artists or artists with disabilities may request up to $5,000 in additional accessibility funding.
6. Can a project start before results are announced?
No. The project must not begin before adjudication.
Conclusion
The Visual and Media Arts Projects: Presentation program is a valuable opportunity for Toronto-based arts organizations, collectives, and curators to support impactful public presentation of contemporary visual and media arts.
With up to $15,000 available, plus possible accessibility support, the program is especially well suited for projects that combine strong curatorial vision, public engagement, and inclusive artistic practice.
For more information, visit Toronto Arts Council.