City of Waterloo launches Arts Grant Program – Canada

Deadline: 20-Feb-25

The City of Waterloo has launched the Arts Grant Program to support arts organizations with funding for operations, specific projects and capital.

Grant Program Principles

• The Arts Grant program is intended for arts initiatives that are:
  • Led by Affiliated Organizations, or designated Key Cultural Institutions; and/or,
  • Led by not-for profit organizations with an arts mandate
• The Arts Grant program is intended to:
  • Have an easy-to-follow application process;
  • Allow for innovative cultural initiatives;
  • Be flexible in terms of the range of ideas funded and their implementation

What you need to apply?

• The maximum amount for an Arts Grant is 10% of the organization’s total annual budget. Funds can support operating, project and capital costs.
  • Operating grants
    • are for ongoing costs that support the day-to-day working of your organization
    • examples include rent, insurance, telephone and internet services, staff salaries, program expenses and in-house training
  • Project grants
    • one-time, temporary projects with a specific objective
    • are completed in a set timeframe with a clear beginning and end date
    • must differ from your core services or programs
  • Capital grants 
    • one-time expenses for structures, equipment, or other long-term assets

Eligibility Criteria

• To be eligible for the Arts Grant, the organization must:
  • have an organizational mandate to deliver art programming or initiatives
  • deliver programs, services or projects that must benefit the residents of the City of Waterloo by providing opportunities to participate in the arts
  • be organized for a minimum of one year
  • comply with all applicable legislation, regulations and bylaws for all levels of government
• To be eligible for an Arts Grant, organizations must also;
  • Be organized for a minimum of one (1) year;
  • Operate as a not-for-profit or community organization under the leadership of a volunteer board of directors or executive committee, elected by the general membership, or as a registered charity;
  • Demonstrate a benefit to residents of Waterloo;
  • Hold regular board or committee meetings with recorded minutes;
  • Carry public liability insurance at the required level.

Ineligibility Criteria

• The following types of groups are not eligible to apply:
  • A single individual
  • Organizations in the sports, recreation, neighbourhood, social service or health sectors
  • Organizations that act as a funding body, or makes grants to another organization
  • Political organizations or any organization focused on political activities or activism
  • Religious organizations, or programs, projects, festivals or events that promote or celebrate a religion

For more information, visit City of Waterloo.