Art, culture & heritage grants for local non-profit groups open September 23
News Release
More than $180,000 is available to support local non-profit arts, culture and heritage organizations. Beginning Sept. 23, these groups can once again apply for funding to support their organizations or special projects. Those interested in applying for General Operating or Project Program grants can find guidelines and application information at kelowna.ca/culturegrants.
“Our local arts, culture and heritage organizations play a vital role in creating community and vibrancy within our city. With the help of these grants, several new projects made a successful debut in 2024 including Niteo’s Stories Around the World event and the 3-day Kelowna Fashion Week(end),” says Christine McWillis, Cultural Services Manager for the City of Kelowna. “We’re proud to be able to offer these grants as a way of supporting the creative sector and help organizations in their mission to bring joy, entertain, educate and foster community within our beautiful city.”
These grants can support a diverse array of projects, encompassing various forms of art, culture, and heritage. From language classes and theatre productions to exhibitions, comedy festivals, cultural celebrations, and music series, they can enable both educational and entertainment-focused initiatives. The City is eager to fund fresh and innovative projects, continuing our commitment to enriching the cultural landscape.
Organizations may apply for the following grants:
- General Operating Grants: Provides assistance to non-profit arts, culture and heritage organizations that deliver impactful, quality programs and services, deliver sustainable operations and contribute to the realization of the City’s 2020-2025 Cultural Plan.
- Project Program Grants: Provides seed money for events, festivals or projects with a cultural focus that align with the 2020-2025 Cultural Plan.
Organizations interested in applying for either of the above grants are encouraged to attend one of two upcoming virtual information sessions:
- Sept. 23, 4 – 6 p.m.
- Oct. 2, 4 – 6 p.m.
These free information sessions will help to ensure applicants are ready to apply. You’ll learn about the types of projects and organizations we support, the various funding programs available, the application process, and tips for submitting a successful application. Register online at kelowna.ca/culture.
Grant applications will be accepted until Monday, December 2 at 3 p.m. PST. Please note that late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Grant funding will be confirmed for successful applicants in February 2025.
To learn more about how City grants support programs and initiatives in our community, flip through the 2021-2022 Commitment to Community Impact Report.
For more information about Cultural Grants, and to apply, visit kelowna.ca/culturegrants.
