Deadline: 25-Oct-2026
The Indigenous 360 Grant Program supports Indigenous artists, Knowledge Keepers, and Indigenous-led arts organisations in developing and presenting artistic and cultural projects. Funding is provided for new works, performances, exhibitions, community arts activities, and professional development, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on project scale.
Program Overview
This grant program is designed to strengthen Indigenous artistic expression, cultural preservation, and professional development. It supports both individual creators and Indigenous-led organisations working across arts and culture.
The program prioritises projects that reflect Indigenous knowledge systems, creativity, community engagement, and cultural leadership.
Funding Levels
Applicants can apply for one of three funding categories:
- Micro-grant: up to $1,000
- Small-scale grant: up to $5,000
- Large-scale grant: up to $15,000
Funding is intended for direct project-related costs only.
Eligible Project Activities
The program supports a wide range of artistic and cultural activities, including:
- Creation of new artworks or works in progress
- Public presentations such as:
- Performances
- Exhibitions
- Concerts
- Readings
- Community-based arts projects
- Workshops and collaborative artistic activities
- Cultural gatherings and community engagement events
- Publications and creative documentation
- Training, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs
- Professional development initiatives for Indigenous artists
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Professional Indigenous artists
- Indigenous Knowledge Keepers
- Indigenous arts and cultural professionals
- Indigenous-led arts groups
- Indigenous-led arts organisations
- Indigenous-led arts service organisations
- Indigenous-led community not-for-profit organisations
Organisational Requirements
For Indigenous-led groups and organisations:
- At least 75% of staff must be Indigenous
- Organisations must demonstrate Indigenous leadership and governance
- Projects must be led by Indigenous creative direction
Program Objectives
The Indigenous 360 Grant Program aims to:
- Support the creation of new Indigenous-led artworks
- Strengthen cultural expression and storytelling
- Increase public access to Indigenous arts and culture
- Promote community engagement through artistic activities
- Support mentorship and skill development in Indigenous communities
- Preserve and transmit Indigenous knowledge systems
- Build sustainable Indigenous arts practices
Eligible Expenses
Funding may cover:
- Artist and facilitator fees
- Materials and production costs
- Venue and exhibition expenses
- Workshop and community engagement costs
- Documentation and publication costs
- Training, apprenticeship, and mentorship expenses
- Direct costs related to project delivery
Funding cannot be used for unrelated or general organisational expenses.
Why This Program Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Strengthens Indigenous cultural sovereignty and expression
- Supports intergenerational knowledge sharing
- Expands opportunities for Indigenous artists and creatives
- Promotes community-led cultural development
- Enhances visibility of Indigenous arts in public spaces
- Encourages professional growth through mentorship and training
- Preserves and revitalises Indigenous cultural practices
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applications may be less competitive if they:
- Do not demonstrate strong Indigenous leadership or ownership
- Include non-eligible or unrelated expenses
- Lack clear project outcomes or artistic intent
- Fail to show community or cultural impact
- Do not align with Indigenous arts and cultural priorities
- Provide unclear budgets or funding allocation plans
- Do not meet staffing or governance requirements for organisations
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define the artistic or cultural purpose of the project
- Demonstrate strong Indigenous leadership and participation
- Show meaningful community engagement or impact
- Include clear project timelines and deliverables
- Align the project with cultural knowledge and traditions
- Provide a realistic and detailed budget
- Highlight mentorship, training, or intergenerational learning elements
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for this grant?
Indigenous artists, Knowledge Keepers, and Indigenous-led arts organisations and groups.
What is the funding range?
Between $1,000 and $15,000 depending on project scale.
What types of projects are supported?
Artworks, performances, exhibitions, community projects, and cultural development activities.
Can organisations apply?
Yes, if they are Indigenous-led and at least 75% of staff are Indigenous.
Can funding support professional development?
Yes, including training, apprenticeships, and mentorships.
What is the main goal of the program?
To support Indigenous-led artistic creation and cultural development.
Are community projects eligible?
Yes, especially those involving Indigenous artists and cultural participation.
Conclusion
The Indigenous 360 Grant Program provides flexible funding to support Indigenous-led artistic and cultural initiatives across creation, performance, community engagement, and professional development. By prioritising Indigenous leadership and cultural knowledge, the program strengthens artistic expression, cultural continuity, and community empowerment.
For more information, visit Manitoba Arts Council.
