Creating, Knowing and Sharing — Small-Scale Activities

The Small-Scale Activities funding under the "Creating, Knowing and Sharing" program supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists, cultural carriers, and organizations. This grant enables them to advance their artistic careers through various eligible projects and activities.

The Small-Scale Activities funding component, offered by the Canada Council for the Arts under the broader "Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples" program, is an invaluable resource for Indigenous artists and cultural practitioners in Canada. This grant is specifically designed to foster the growth and development of these artists and cultural professionals by providing financial support for activities critical to their artistic journey. Eligible applicants may include First Nations, Inuit, and Métis professional artists, aspiring artists under mentorship, cultural carriers, arts/cultural professionals, as well as both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations that meet certain criteria.

The grant aims to support a diverse range of artistic pursuits that are fundamental to the enhancement of artistic careers or practices. This includes acquiring essential materials for artistic production, which can help artists create new works, refine their skills, or explore new mediums. Furthermore, it allows artists and organizations to engage in developmental activities that contribute significantly to their growth. These might include attending workshops, participating in artistic residencies, or collaborating with more established artists for mentorship and knowledge exchange. Compensation for professional artists and cultural carriers who provide critical expertise or training falls under the funded activities' umbrella.

The grant amount can go up to $3,000 and can be utilized for several specified purposes. However, it is essential for applicants to note that the funding is confined to activities not already receiving financial support from other components of the Canada Council for the Arts or encompassed in the general list of ineligible activities. This ensures a tailored and focused utilization of resources, enhancing the efficiency and impact of funded projects.

For artists or groups who are experiencing difficulties during the application process, particularly those who self-identify as artists with disabilities or those facing language, geographic, or cultural barriers, the Application Assistance initiative can support. This program ensures that the grant is accessible to all eligible individuals or groups, providing an inclusive environment for Indigenous arts and culture practitioners.

In addition to financial aid, the Council highly recommends that first-time applicants communicate with a Program Officer. Such preliminary discussions can offer invaluable guidance throughout the application process, tailoring advice to individual needs, and aligning proposed projects with the broader objectives of the grant framework. The process begins by creating an account and submitting the necessary profiles for validation at least 30 days prior to applying, ensuring a smooth transition into the application phase.

Overall, the Small-Scale Activities component is an essential part of sustaining and promoting the diverse artistic expressions and cultural narratives of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada. By offering financial support and guidance, the Canada Council for the Arts facilitates a rich cultural exchange that not only benefits individual artists but also strengthens community ties and enriches the broader Canadian cultural landscape. This strategic investment is instrumental in preserving the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples while simultaneously fostering contemporary artistic innovation and expression.