Application Deadline:
30 January 2026
About Organisation
The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) is a provincial agency dedicated to supporting arts, culture, and creativity across Ontario. It funds artists, arts professionals, and organisations while promoting access, equity, and diversity in the arts sector. The OAC places strong emphasis on Indigenous-led decision-making and culturally grounded support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Through targeted grant programs, the Council aims to strengthen artistic practice, preserve cultural knowledge, and encourage meaningful community engagement across a wide range of visual, traditional, and contemporary art forms.
About the Grant
The Indigenous Arts Materials Grant supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists in Ontario by providing funding specifically for art materials and small tools. Grants of $500 or $1,000 help artists create new work or deliver workshops by covering essential costs such as raw materials, shipping, and travel to gather supplies. The program focuses on practical support for artistic creation rather than fees or commercial production. Funded projects must begin after approval, be completed within two years, and be documented through images and a short final report.
Who can Apply?
Eligible applicants include First Nations, Inuit, or Métis artists and Culture Carriers aged 18 or older who are professional artists or arts professionals. Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or have pending status, and must have lived in Ontario for at least 12 consecutive months prior to applying. Groups and collectives may also apply if they meet specific eligibility and residency requirements. The grant supports a wide range of Indigenous visual and customary art forms, provided the funding is used strictly for materials and small tools.
How to Apply?
Applicants must apply through the Ontario Arts Council’s online system and select a recommender relevant to their art form. Applications include written responses, up to eight images or video documentation, and optional support materials such as an artist résumé. Offline or oral applications are available for eligible Indigenous applicants facing internet access barriers. All applications must be submitted before the deadline.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Indigenous Arts Materials Grant must be submitted by 30 January 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
