FAQ
Applying for Funding
I have a great idea for a book/TV show/painting/movie/musical/kids’ play . . . am I eligible for funding?
For the most part, the BC Arts Council funds professional artists and arts organizations with an existing body of work and an identifiable track record. It also provides scholarships for young and emerging artists who are enrolling in undergraduate, graduate and recognized arts training programs. The Council supports non-professional arts practise through the network of community arts councils but does not support individual non-professional artists who want to pursue personal, creative endeavours.
How do I get an application form?
You can apply either electronically or by printing an application form and sending it by mail. Mailed applications must be postmarked by the grant deadline. Both electronic and hard copy forms are available on the website
How should I prepare my application? What if I have questions?
Applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines and contact the Program Officer prior to applying.
Do you allow deadline extensions?
Applications must be postmarked by the deadline indicated on the guideline. However, if the deadline falls on a weekend or on a major holiday, it moves to the next business day. If you have any questions regarding your application, contact the Program Officer.
Where do I find the forms I need to complete my applications?
All required forms are linked to the program guidelines.
How long until I know the outcome of my application?
Under normal circumstances, grant results are available by mail about twelve to fourteen weeks after the deadline.
Can I get feedback on my application after the grants have been awarded?
Yes, applicants are urged to seek feedback on their application from the Program Officer.
If I am unsuccessful, can I re-apply with the same project to the next deadline?
Yes, you can apply twice for the same project. However, if your project is unsuccessful, contact the program coordinator for feedback before re-applying.
What are the tax implications for Individual Project Grant recipients?
Grant funding is considered income, and therefore taxable. The BC Arts Council issues T4A slips for all personal grants.
Who do I call to ask about the status of my application?
Contact the Program Officer in your discipline.
I want to create a show that combines dance, theatre, music and video. What program should I apply to?
Applicants are encouraged to discuss questions of appropriate program with a Program Officer. At this time, the BC Arts Council does not have a distinct inter-disciplinary or multi-disciplinary program. We have programs for dance, for theatre, for music, and for media arts.
I have been told I can't apply for a new project because I have an outstanding final report. What does this mean?
The BC Arts Council requires a Final Report for every funded project. Reports are due within three months of a project's conclusion.
Don't see your question here? Contact a Program Officer.
About the Council
What is the BC Arts Council and what does it do?
The British Columbia Arts Council is an agency of the Province of British Columbia and is committed to ensuring that all British Columbians are able to participate in a healthy arts and cultural community recognized for its excellence. The Council’s mission is to support the arts and cultural community to achieve its creative, social and economic potential.
How are members of the Council appointed?
The Council consists of 15 members who are broadly representative of the regions, cultural diversity, and artistic communities of British Columbia. Members are appointed by an order in council that also designates the Chair and the Vice-Chair.
How much money is available?
The BC Arts Council provides grants for a wide variety of initiatives. Each funding program has different budget allocations. Funding information is available in program guidelines.
How are applications assessed?
All applications are assessed through a peer review process. Click here for more details on that process.
How are jurors and advisors selected?
Juries and advisory committees are made up of people with expertise in a particular artistic discipline or genre. When selecting jury and committee members, the Council considers broad professional knowledge, expertise, geographical representation and diverse aesthetic, institutional, and cultural viewpoints.
Can I be on a jury or advisory committee?
It’s easy to nominate someone (or yourself!) to be a jury or advisory committee member. Click here to find out how.
For more information about how to sit on a jury or advisory committee.
What is the difference between the BC Arts Council and the Assembly of BC Arts Councils?
The BC Arts Council (BCAC) is a publicly funded agency of the Province of British Columbia which supports the arts and cultural community to achieve its creative, social and economic potential.
The Assembly of British Columbia Arts Councils is a member-driven, not-for-profit arts and cultural service organization which provides advocacy, leadership and support to community and regional arts Councils as well as supporting the central role of arts and arts practices in building community.
Don't see your question here?Contact the BC Arts Council.
On-line application form
Why can’t I find my application form on-line?
Application forms are available on the system approximately six weeks prior to the program deadline.
How do I get access to the on-line application form?
The on-line applications forms can be accessed through the program guideline pages. Once applicants have acknowledged they’ve read the guidelines, they are able to enter the on-line application system.
What kind of web browsers can I use to access/download the forms?
You may encounter problems when using Firefox with the on-line application forms. Using Internet Explorer is recommended. For system requirements, please refer to the technical guide.