Closed
Source verified May 18, 2026
ArtWorksTO Youth Program
Paid media arts training for Toronto IBPOC youth
Latest source updateLast Update: June 14, 2026Latest change: The ArtWorksTO Youth Program now shows updated eligibility, timeline, application, and funding details, including a $5,000 contract and $150 stipends.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: June 14, 2026
Latest change: The ArtWorksTO Youth Program now shows updated eligibility, timeline, application, and funding details, including a $5,000 contract and $150 stipends.
ArtWorksTO Youth Program details updated
The ArtWorksTO Youth Program now shows a revised eligibility and selection framework, including Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, or pending permanent resident status, Toronto residency only, a valid SIN, and intermediate English skills (CLB 6 or above). It also now presents updated program scope and participation details, including a $5,000 paid creative contract, $150.00 stipends for each of the three OCAD U courses completed, and a requirement to commit to all three major components for approximately 6–7 months. The timeline has shifted to a 2027 intake window: applications open in February 2027 (TBC), the deadline is in March 2027 (TBC), the OCAD U courses run April to early June 2027 and July to August 2027, media arts project development runs June to mid-September 2027, mentorship runs mid-May to August 2027, and graduation is in October 2027 (TBC). The application process now emphasizes a portfolio, program guidelines, and RFP-based project matching where p
Funding available
$ 5,000
Deadline
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 $
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
- 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
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.
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