The Region of Waterloo in Ontario is offering $265,000 in grants to help local creators and groups launch new artistic projects through its 2026 arts funding program.
Applications are open now and will be accepted until April 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Individual artists, community groups, and non-profit organizations can apply for up to $10,000 for projects that can be finished within 12 months.
This year’s funding is managed by MT Space, a local theatre company that focuses on centralizing diverse voices. The organization was selected to run the grant program through 2027 following a review of how regional arts money is distributed.
These grants provide a new way for creators to get support after a previous funding program was paused in early 2024 because of management issues and staff safety concerns. In addition to this regional money, the Waterloo Region Community Foundation has another $200,000 available for non-profit arts groups this year.
Local officials are currently gathering feedback from the community to decide if a new arts council should be formed to oversee culture in the area. A final report on those plans is expected to be ready by August 2026.
