News Release
BC ARTS COUNCIL OFFERS SUSTAINABILITY PILOT PROJECT
VICTORIA – B.C. arts organizations, contending with the impacts of the global recession, may get some relief through a new BC Arts Council capacity and sustainability pilot program announced today by Council Chair Jane Danzo.
“The Special Project Assistance Capacity and Sustainability Program is designed to assist arts and cultural organizations affected by economic forces,” Danzo said. “Eligible organizations can apply for up to $30,000 in funding, to go toward specific activities that will build organizational capacity and enhance sustainability.”
The program offers training, technical assistance and funding to arts organizations that can demonstrate a high degree of critical self-reflection. Funding can be used to hire staff to build artistic or administrative capacity, address cash flow requirements, implement marketing and development initiatives, or purchase capital assets up to $20,000.
“The BC Arts Council is taking the lead in helping ensure the long-term viability of the province’s arts and cultural sector,” said Kevin Krueger, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. “Like the Council, the Province recognizes the key social and economic role that arts and culture play in our communities, and supports the Council in finding innovative ways to advance the arts in British Columbia.”
The program is open to arts organizations that have received Council funding in the last two fiscal years. The application deadline is January 15, 2010, with successful applicants announced in March.
The Council is delivering the program in partnership with the Centre for Sustainability, an organization that helps B.C. not-for-profits build internal capacity and strengthen their financial outlook. The program supports the key objectives of the Council’s 2009-2013 Strategic Plan, including the need to develop initiatives that improve organizational sustainability.
For program guidelines, click here.
The BC Arts council is an independent agency, funded by the Province of British Columbia.
For further information, contact Chris Gudgeon, BC Arts Council Communications Manager, at chris.gudgeon@gov.bc.ca.