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Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) - Canada
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Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF)

Last Update: February 4, 2026
Canada
Supports Vancouver-based arts organizations financially to develop and present artistic work
Grant and Funding

At a glance

Funding available
Financing goals
    Increasing community impact
Eligible Funding
  • No Condition
Timeline
  • Unspecified
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Canada
Legal structures
  • Non-profit
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
  • All industries
Target groups
  • All the groups
Revenue structures
  • All structures
Scope
  • All dimensions

Overview

The Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) provides core financial support to Vancouver-based arts organizations, with grants generally covering up to half of their operating expenses. It aims to strengthen the local arts and cultural sector by supporting organizations that develop, create, produce, and disseminate artistic work in Vancouver.

Activities funded

  • Development and creation of new artistic projects
  • Production and dissemination of cultural works
  • Provision of professional arts services or space
  • Examples of admissible projects:
    $ 20,000
    Upgrading audiovisual equipment to improve artistic performance production
    $ 22,000
    Development of an online platform to promote local arts and cultural events

    Documents Needed

    • Proof of organizational financial statements demonstrating operating expenses.
    • Documentation of previous funding received from the City of Vancouver or related grants.
    • Completed Expression of Interest form for new applicants.

    Eligibility

    • Existing funding relationship with the City of Vancouver.
    • Minimum operating expense budget of $150,000, with an average of $200,000 or more.

    Who is eligible?

    • Non-profit arts and cultural organizations located in Vancouver

    Who is not eligible

    • Organizations without an existing funding relationship with Vancouver
    • Businesses or for-profit entities

    Eligible expenses

    • Operational costs related to artistic, cultural, or professional activities.
    • Space, equipment, or service expenses to develop and produce artistic work.

    Ineligible Costs and Activities


    Eligible geographic areas

    Vancouver

    Selection criteria

  • Existing funding relationship with the City of Vancouver
  • Organizational financial stability and adequate operating budget
  • Alignment with cultural development objectives in Vancouver
  • How to apply

    Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) form online.Review staff comments and invitations to submit a full application.Prepare and submit a detailed funding application if invited.Meet with program staff if required to clarify project aims and budget.

    Processing and Agreement

    Additional information

    • The program encourages ongoing partnerships with Vancouver-based organizations.
    • Applicants should review the funding conditions and reporting requirements upon receiving support.
    • Organizational stability and prior funding relationship with the City of Vancouver are beneficial.
    • It is recommended to submit the Expression of Interest early for consideration.
    Apply to this program

    Frequently Asked Questions about the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) Program

    Here are answers to the most common questions about the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

    What is the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF)?

    How much funding can be received?

    What expenses are eligible under Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF)?

    What is the deadline to apply?

    Is the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) a grant, loan, or tax credit?

    Who are the financial supporters of the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF)?

    Who is eligible for the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) program?

    Who can I contact for more information about the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF)?

    Where is the Cultural Grants Program - Cultural Operating Funding Program (COF) available?

    Apply to this program

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