What Can Explore and Create Fund: Comprehensive Guide
Explore and Create — Concept to Realization is a Canadian program offering substantial financial support for creative projects across the full spectrum of artistic endeavors. This program is integral in nurturing artistic talent by funding a wide array of activities from research and development to final presentation.
Program Funding Overview
The Explore and Create — Concept to Realization program provides grants that cover a broad range of artistic activities. This program is designed to support the entire creative process, offering both project grants for single activities and composite grants for multiple projects over a one to three-year period. These grants can reach up to $100,000, depending on the scope and requirements of the project.
Funding Amounts & Rates
Project Grants: Typically up to $60,000; exceptionally up to $100,000 for projects with elevated costs.
Composite Grants: Generally up to $60,000 per year, up to $100,000 in exceptional cases, with a maximum of $300,000 over three years.
Higher funding amounts may be granted for projects with significant technical, personnel, or duration demands.
Eligible Expenses
Explore and Create funds are allocated to a variety of costs directly related to the creative process. Eligible expenses include:
Professional Fees: Compensation for artists and collaborators involved in the project.
Child/Dependent Care Costs: Necessary expenses incurred to enable participation in the project.
Equipment Purchases: Up to $1,000 per item, with a total equipment expenditure not exceeding 10% of the total grant.
Detailed Categories of Eligible Expenses
Artistic Research and Creation: Costs associated with the conception and development of new artistic works.
Production and Post-Production: Funding for transforming concepts into tangible presentations or exhibits.
Presentation Costs: Expenses linked to public displays or exhibitions of the work.
Ineligible Expenses
Certain costs are not covered under this program. These include:
Literary Writing Projects: Self-publishing and author-subsidized literary works are excluded.
Pre-Project Expenses: Costs incurred before the official start date of the project.
Activities Funded by Other Programs: Projects already supported by another Canada Council program.
Expense Documentation Requirements
Applicants must provide detailed documentation of expenses, including:
Invoices and Receipts: Proof of payment for all eligible costs.
Contracts: Agreements with collaborators and service providers.
Examples of Funded Projects
Projects funded by the Explore and Create program often include:
Public Exhibitions: Visual arts showcases and interactive installations.
Media Arts Productions: Films or digital art ready for public dissemination.
Artist Books: Publications produced by visual artists or publishers.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
Funds are typically disbursed upon completion of a Grant Acceptance Form. For composite grants, payments are scheduled annually, post-April 1st. A final report is due three months after project completion.
Stacking Rules
This program allows for grants to be combined with other funding sources, provided the total funding does not exceed the project’s budget. Some restrictions apply, particularly regarding simultaneous funding from similar Canada Council programs.
Real-World Budgeting Tips
To maximize grant utility, applicants should plan around ineligible expenses and ensure all project costs align with program guidelines. Proper budget allocation and contingency planning are crucial for project success.
Conclusion
Explore and Create — Concept to Realization offers a robust opportunity for Canadian artists to secure funding for diverse creative projects. By understanding eligible expenses and planning strategically, artists can enhance their chances of receiving funding and executing successful projects.
