Closed
Source verified May 18, 2026
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program
Paid media arts training and contracts for Indigenous youth
Latest source updateLast Update: June 14, 2026Latest change: The program now shows an expected January 2027 opening, a confirmed timeline is no longer listed, and the application instructions were reorganized with new resources.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: June 14, 2026
Latest change: The program now shows an expected January 2027 opening, a confirmed timeline is no longer listed, and the application instructions were reorganized with new resources.
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program timeline and application flow updated
The program timeline has changed from a dated 2025–2026 intake flow to a new status of “expected to open January 2027 (TBC),” and the main timeline is now described as to be confirmed. This is a major timeline update because the prior workshop and deadline schedule is no longer shown in the main flow. Application instructions were also reorganized: the page now points applicants to past program guidelines and an “Additional Resources” section with a program guidelines download, instead of the earlier step-by-step intake flow. Eligibility remains centered on Indigenous youth ages 18–35 with a GTA residence requirement and a media arts practice, while the core funding amount still shows a $5,000 paid creative contract.
Funding available
$ 5,000
Deadline
Closed
Location
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Overview
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program supports Indigenous youth media artists with paid creative contracts, mentorship, and OCAD U training. It includes portfolio development workshops, workshops with Indigenous leaders, and project work for partner organizations.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new program or service
- Increase social or community impact
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
- Minimum amount : 5,000 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Toronto
- Ontario
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Youth (<40)
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Culture and Arts
- Employment and Training
- Diversity and Inclusion
Target groups
- Indigenous peoples
- Artists / creatives
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Municipal
- Regional
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Portfolio development workshops.
- OCAD U credential training.
- Mentorship with experienced media artists.
- Paid media arts project work for partner organizations.
Documents Needed
- Online application form
- Creative portfolio
- Short bio
- Artist statement
- Proof of Indigenous identity connection
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Indigenous youth media artists.
- Artists working in media arts disciplines.
- Applicants based in the Greater Toronto Area.
Who is not eligible
- Applicants outside the Greater Toronto Area without a strong Toronto connection
- Non-Indigenous applicants
- Applicants outside the 18 to 35 age range
Eligible expenses
- Paid creative contract for project work
- Learning-related costs such as software and childcare
- Equipment rental and transportation for contract work
Eligible geographic areas
- Greater Toronto Area
Selection criteria
- Career aspirations and program fit.
- Portfolio quality and creative exploration.
- Representation of artistic disciplines within the group.
- Skills fit with available contracts.
- Availability to complete the program.
How to apply
- Step 1: Review program information
- Read the FAQ and confirm your eligibility.
- Step 2: Prepare your application materials
- Prepare your portfolio and supporting information.
- Step 3: Submit the online application
- Complete the application form on the program website.
- Provide details about your experience and portfolio.
- Step 4: Attend the review process if shortlisted
- Participate in the interview and RFP stages if selected.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by a decision committee and shortlisted.
- Shortlisted applicants are invited to an in-person, conversation-style interview.
- Selected candidates take part in an RFP bid process.
- Bids are reviewed by staff, alumni, and advisors, then recommended to the host for final review and approval.
Additional information
- Applicants are interviewed in person.
- The program includes mentorship and workshops with Indigenous leaders.
- Selected participants receive a free Adobe Creative Suite subscription for 6 months.
- The program is built around reciprocal relationships and cultural support.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program Program
What is the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program?
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program supports Indigenous youth media artists with paid creative contracts, mentorship, and OCAD U training. It includes portfolio development workshops, workshops with Indigenous leaders, and project work for partner organizations.
How much funding can be received?
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program Funds up to $5,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program program?
To be eligible for the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program program, you must:
Indigenous youth aged 18 to 35
Media artist with experience
GTA resident
What expenses are eligible under ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program?
Portfolio development workshops.
OCAD U credential training.
Mentorship with experienced media artists.
Paid media arts project work for partner organizations.
Who can I contact for more information about the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program?
You can contact Toronto Arts Foundation by email at kennedy@torontoarts.org.
Where is the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program available?
The ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
ArtWorksTO Indigenous Program is a Partnering and Collaboration