Role of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society in the funding ecosystem
The Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society (CCACS) is a BC‑registered non‑profit that operates under contract to the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District. It manages the Central Cariboo Arts Centre and acts as a key local funder, distributing public funds to strengthen arts and culture across Williams Lake and CRD Areas D, E and F. Its mandate includes administering grant programs, fee‑for‑service funding, and in‑kind space support for community arts activity.
Grant programs and funding streams
The CCACS Grant Program offers two competitive intakes each year, in spring and fall. Eligible non‑profit organizations, Indigenous governments, community groups and arts and culture organizations based or active in the Central Cariboo can apply for grants typically ranging from $500 to $3,000. Funding streams include support for collaborative co‑creation projects, new and innovative "bright ideas" initiatives, expansion of successful existing programs, and capital purchases that enhance arts delivery.
In addition to cash grants, CCACS runs the Create/Space initiative, which provides in‑kind sponsorship by covering rental fees and use of equipment at the Central Cariboo Arts Centre for public workshops and cultural offerings. This reduces barriers for grassroots groups to host accessible, community‑oriented arts programming.
General eligibility and assessment
Applicants must demonstrate an established presence in the community, offer arts or cultural activities within the region, and operate on a not‑for‑profit basis. Projects can include festivals, performances, workshops, exhibitions, professional development, community‑based arts initiatives and capital acquisitions that directly support arts programming. Proposals are assessed on criteria such as community impact and engagement, innovation and sustainability, collaboration and co‑creation, and inclusivity and accessibility.
Applications must include a balanced budget, diversified funding sources, and a clear rationale showing how the project meets program goals. CCACS encourages fair payment of artists and cultural workers, and provides tools such as sample budgets, guidelines and information sessions to help applicants prepare strong submissions.
Transparency, reporting and impact
Successful recipients are required to acknowledge support from the Cariboo Regional District and City of Williams Lake via CCACS in all promotional materials, helping to build awareness of public investment in the arts. Funded groups must submit final reports within a set timeframe, using standardized reporting templates. CCACS publishes information about past recipients and regularly issues news releases on grant results, illustrating the program’s ongoing impact on local arts, cultural diversity and community vitality.
