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ArtWorksTO Youth Program - Toronto - Ontario - Canada
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ArtWorksTO Youth Program

Paid media arts training for Toronto IBPOC youth
Last Update: May 18, 2026
View official website
Funding available
$ 5,000
Timeline
  • Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Overview

ArtWorksTO Youth Program supports IBPOC youth in Toronto pursuing careers in media arts through paid work, mentorship, and training. Participants may also receive OCAD U courses, stipends, and project funding for direct costs related to their media arts work.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Increase performance through digital transformation
  • Develop strategic partnerships
  • Develop team skills
Eligible Funding
  • Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Timeline
  • Receipt of requests is now closed

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • Information and cultural industries
  • Arts, entertainment and recreation
Location
  • Toronto
  • Ontario
Legal structures
  • Non-profit
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • Persons with Disabilities
  • Other Racialized Persons
  • Black Canadians
  • 2SLGBTQI+
  • Canadians
  • Youth (<40)
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
  • Culture and Arts
  • Employment and Training
  • Children and Youth Organizations
  • Diversity and Inclusion
Target groups
  • Young adults
  • Indigenous peoples
  • LGBTQ+ community
  • Artists / creatives
  • Minority groups
Revenue structures
  • All structures
Scope
  • Local

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Activities funded

  • Paid creative contract work in media arts.
  • OCAD U portfolio development and professional skills training.
  • Mentorship with industry professionals.
  • Networking through masterclasses, workshops, and panels.

Documents Needed

  • Online application form
  • Creative portfolio
  • Short bio
  • Artist statement

Official resources

Official page

Art Works TO Youth Program

Program guide

Art Works TO FAQs

Application form

2026 Art Works TO Youth Program Application Form

Supporting document

2026 Credit & Logo Usage Guidelines for Participants

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • IBPOC youth media creatives
  • Emerging media artists
  • Young creatives pursuing careers in the media arts industry

Who is not eligible

  • Applicants who are not Toronto residents
  • Applicants outside the 18 to 29 age range
  • Applicants who are not IBPOC youth media artists

Eligible expenses

  • Learning-related costs such as software, childcare, and travel support.
  • Project costs such as equipment rental, transportation, and artists’ fees.
  • OCAD U course-related learning support.

Eligible geographic areas

  • Toronto

Selection criteria

  • Career goals aligned with the program.
  • Portfolio quality, voice, and technical skill.
  • Commitment to complete all program components.
  • Media arts experience with limited client work.
  • Eligibility and availability for the program.

How to apply

  • Step 1: Review program details
    • Read the FAQ and program information.
    • Confirm your eligibility and fit for the program.
  • Step 2: Prepare materials
    • Prepare your creative portfolio.
    • Prepare your short bio and artist statement.
  • Step 3: Complete the online form
    • Fill out the online application form on the main program page.
    • Submit all required responses and portfolio materials.

Processing and Agreement

  • Applications are reviewed by a multidisciplinary panel.
  • Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview.
  • Some shortlisted candidates may then enter an RFP process.
  • Final selections are made after review of applications and RFP proposals.
  • Applicants may request general feedback after the final decision.

Additional information

  • The 2026 application period is closed.
  • Applicants may receive free one-on-one portfolio feedback.
  • Selected participants gain access to alumni pathways after the core program.

Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions about the ArtWorksTO Youth Program Program

What is the ArtWorksTO Youth Program?

ArtWorksTO Youth Program supports IBPOC youth in Toronto pursuing careers in media arts through paid work, mentorship, and training. Participants may also receive OCAD U courses, stipends, and project funding for direct costs related to their media arts work.

How much funding can be received?

ArtWorksTO Youth Program Funds up to $5,000 of admissible expenses.

Who is eligible for the ArtWorksTO Youth Program program?

To be eligible for the ArtWorksTO Youth Program program, you must: IBPOC youth, ages 18–29 Toronto resident Media arts experience

What expenses are eligible under ArtWorksTO Youth Program?

Paid creative contract work in media arts. OCAD U portfolio development and professional skills training. Mentorship with industry professionals. Networking through masterclasses, workshops, and panels.

Who can I contact for more information about the ArtWorksTO Youth Program?

You can contact Toronto Arts Foundation by email at norma@torontoarts.org or by phone at none.

Where is the ArtWorksTO Youth Program available?

The ArtWorksTO Youth Program program is available the province of Ontario.

Is the ArtWorksTO Youth Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?

ArtWorksTO Youth Program is a Partnering and Collaboration