Applications open for We Matter Arts Grant Program 2025 (Canada)

This grant encourages creative projects that inspire, educate, and uplift Indigenous communities through artistic expression.

Funding Information

• $2,000 or less for small projects.
• $5,000 or less for large projects.

Eligible Expenses

• Art supplies and project materials (e.g., beads, fabric, equipment).
• Honorariums for community members, elders, or professionals helping with the project, limited to 5% of the overall budget per individual, for a total of 2 individuals only.
• Individuals cannot be a member of artists’ immediate family.
• An optional single payment of 10% of the overall budget to the artist or those directly working on the project to reimburse time and effort.
• Promotion and advertising for exhibitions or events related to the project.

Ineligible Expenses

• Accommodation, lodging, and travel expenses (e.g., hotels/Airbnb, gas, vehicle rentals, plane tickets, and per diem).
• Alcohol, cannabis, or other controlled substances (with the exception of tobacco used for cultural or ceremonial purposes)
• Scholarships or ongoing projects beyond the eligibility period
• Debt repayment of any type
• To aid or promote for-profit business ventures that take away from the grant message

Eligible Projects

• They encourage applications from a wide range of creative projects, including but not limited to:
  • Visual arts: painting, sculpture, beadwork, creation of regalia, etc.
  • Media projects: podcasts, films, video projects, etc.
  • Performing arts: music, dance, spoken word, theatre, etc.
  • Written works: poetry, short stories, zines, etc.

Ineligible Projects

• Projects that have already been completed before the grant period. Prior to March 31, 2024.
• Political campaign-related/partisan
• Religious activities

Eligibility Criteria

• Indigenous youth (First Nations, Metis & Inuit) in Canada from 13-30 years of age who are engaged in art or media projects.
• Applicants may be at any stage of their project whether just starting, in progress, or completed during the eligibility timeline.
• Artists may apply individually or as part of a group/collective/organization
• Eligibility is only for Indigenous youth (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) currently living in Canada.
• Projects must be Indigenous youth-led from start to finish. Projects must support life promotion, art and culture, and or youth advocacy.
• Artists must be willing to share their work with the community in some form (e.g., through public presentations, online platforms, or social media.)
• All local, community, provincial/territorial and federal public health policies must be followed – be safe!
• Individuals/Families/Schools/Communities/Groups can apply for ONE grant at a time.
• If your project has been approved, you must sign an agreement & waiver with We Matter.
• Funds must only go to the creation of the project for the Indigenous youth it is intended for in the application.
• If you receive funds, the budget you submitted must be followed. If there are any changes to the budget after submission or approval are needed, you must contact We Matter’s Grant Coordinator to make those changes.
• Submitting receipts and or invoices of proof or purchase and payment of grant-related purchases is mandatory.
• Applicants who have previously received We Matter grants must submit their outstanding reports and receive approval to be eligible for this grant.
• You do not need a non-profit number or anything special to apply – you just need to show us you’re able to lead the project.
• They reserve the right to use and showcase your application, report, and art project (e.g., on social media or Storybook impact reports).

Evaluation Criteria

• How well the project promotes Indigenous life, culture, and advocacy.
• They highly appreciate works that reach a broader audience and create benefits beyond just the artist.
• Whether the project can be realistically completed within the given timeline and budget.
• The originality and cultural relevance of the project. They are looking for a diversity of projects!

Application Requirements

• Applicants must submit a proposal outlining:
  • Project Description: A clear explanation of the project’s goals, how it aligns with the grant’s purpose, and how it will benefit the community.
  • Artist Profile: History of the artist and their past work, personal story and training/education related to the project showcasing their ability to complete it.
  • Budget: A detailed breakdown of how the grant funds will be used.
  • Timeline: A project timeline showing key milestones from start to completion.
  • Supporting Materials: Sketches, work samples, or media clips that demonstrate the concept of the project.
• Within one month after the project’s projected completion, artists will be required to submit:
  • A summary of the project’s outcomes.
  • Photos or videos of the completed work.
  • Links to social media posts about the project so they may reshare.
  • Receipts for materials or services purchased with the grant funds.

For more information, visit We Matter.