First Steps
1. Obtain Basic Information about OAC
Familiarize yourself with the types of grants available in the Granting Programs and Awards section.
2. Check Your Eligibility
In general, if you are an individual artist who is a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant and resident of Ontario, or an Ontario-based arts organization, you can apply for an OAC grant.
Residents are generally defined as persons who have been living in Ontario for at least 1 year. If you are unsure about your eligibility for an OAC grant, contact OAC.
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Individual Applicants
If you are an individual applying for an OAC grant, you must be recognized as a professional practising artist by other artists working in the same field, have completed basic training (formal or informal) in your field(s), spend a significant amount of time practising your art and seek payment for your work. OAC does not fund students.
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Organizational Applicants
Organizations applying for an OAC grant must be actively producing or helping bring the work of professional Ontario artists to communities. Organizations may apply for grants to present and/or produce specific projects, for touring activities, or for annual activity. Organizations requesting operating funding must be not-for-profit and have been in existence for at least two years. It is important to note that OAC is just a part of your mix of funding sources. Generally, OAC cannot wholly-fund your project or organization.
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What OAC is unable to fund
OAC's budget represents a small amount of the total money spent on the arts in Ontario. Therefore, there are many projects across the province which are simply beyond the scope of our funding, regardless of their merit. Activity that is not eligible for OAC grants includes: capital projects (i.e. renovations and new buildings), programs that are part of an accredited college or university program, or fundraising events. OAC also does not fund events or projects that have already taken place.
3. Choose a Program to Suit You
Determine which program area(s) or art form(s) best describes your work. Search Granting Programs for program descriptions and eligibility criteria to select the appropriate program for the project or activity for which you desire funding.
You may have a project that does not fall into any one of the above granting areas. See other areas that may suit your project's needs, including the Ontario Arts Council Foundation Funds and Awards.
4. Contact OAC for More Information
Call, fax or send an e-mail to receive more information about the program and your eligibility.
Note to First-Time Applicants
If this is the first time you are applying for an OAC grant or a particular program, you should contact OAC for more information on choosing a program and filling out an application form. Program staff are available to help you complete the best application possible.