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Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations
Operating support for Nova Scotia cultural organizations
Last Update: May 15, 2026
Funding available
$ 25,000
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Nova Scotia, Canada
Overview
This program supports the core operations and program costs of established arts and culture organizations in Nova Scotia. The annual stream offers up to $25,000 for eligible organizations, while multiyear funding returns for the 2027–2030 cycle.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Raise awareness or mobilize a population
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 25,000 $
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Nova Scotia
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Culture and Arts
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- All dimensions
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Ongoing operations of established arts and culture organizations
- Programs and services that support the development and sustainability of Nova Scotia’s arts and culture sector
- Creation and expression in the arts
- Production and presentation of artistic performances and events
- Cultural festivals and events
Documents Needed
- Completed application form signed and dated by the board chair
- Written assessment responses
- Current staff and board list
- Activity and program lists for the relevant years
- Comparative budget table and financial statements
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Established non-profit societies
- Co-operatives
- Arts and culture organizations
- Facilities, festivals, and service organizations in the cultural sector
Who is not eligible
- Private or for-profit entities
- Municipalities and First Nation Band Councils
- Museums, archives, libraries, and churches or faith-based organizations
- Universities, colleges, and other post-secondary institutions
- Organizations mainly focused on professional arts training
Eligible expenses
- Artistic, technical, and administrative staff costs
- Marketing materials and personnel
- Employee benefits and professional services
- Phone, internet, web hosting, and domain fees
- Facility rent, property taxes, utilities, and insurance
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Capital expenditures or major equipment purchases
- Start-up costs or seed money
- Grants, endowments, and scholarships
- Operating deficits and debt repayment
Eligible geographic areas
- Nova Scotia
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness
- Eligible applications are assessed by a staff panel using the evaluation framework
- Recommendations are forwarded to the Minister for final review
- Applicants are notified of the result by email
- Approved applicants must sign and return the Terms and Conditions before payment
Additional information
- Applicants must select one category: Facility, Festival, or Service Organization.
- New applicants must contact the Program Officer before applying to confirm eligibility.
- Successful applicants must sign and return the Terms and Conditions letter before funds are disbursed.
- Applicants may use generative AI tools as support, but must verify all content for accuracy.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations. 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 Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations?
This program supports the core operations and program costs of established arts and culture organizations in Nova Scotia. The annual stream offers up to $25,000 for eligible organizations, while multiyear funding returns for the 2027–2030 cycle.
How much funding can be received?
Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations Funds up to $25,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations program?
To be eligible for the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations program, you must:
Nova Scotia-based non-profit or cooperative
Arts and culture mandate
At least two years of operation
What expenses are eligible under Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations?
Ongoing operations of established arts and culture organizations
Programs and services that support the development and sustainability of Nova Scotia’s arts and culture sector
Creation and expression in the arts
Production and presentation of artistic performances and events
Cultural festivals and events
Who can I contact for more information about the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations?
You can contact Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage of Nova Scotia by email at CHDapplication@novascotia.ca.
Where is the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations available?
The Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations program is available the province of Nova Scotia.
Is the Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Operating Assistance to Cultural Organizations is a Grant and Funding