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The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) is currently accepting applications for the Major Arts Presenters Operating Funding Program 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click to learn more about this opportunity and apply fo it
Opportunity Details
The AFA grant is designed to support professional arts presenters in Alberta that focus on large-scale public arts presentations. Funding helps these organizations maintain sustainable operations, deliver high-quality programming, and engage artists and audiences while adhering to best practices in governance and financial management.
Eligible Costs
Administration and operational costs.
Programming expenses for performances.
Salaries and professional fees for staff and artists.
Maintenance of equipment and fixed assets.
Marketing, promotion, and audience engagement.
Ineligible Costs
Alcohol, fundraising costs, GST, amortization, bad debt.
Capital expenses (renovations, equipment, vehicles).
Any costs disallowed by AFA guidelines.
Must be a not-for-profit organization registered in Alberta.
At least three years of operational history.
Minimum 50% Alberta-based board members.
Employ at least one full-time equivalent staff for planning/producing performances.
Pay at least 75% of artists industry-standard fees.
Demonstrate good governance, fiscal responsibility, and compliance with Canadian Arts Database.
Must operate independently from municipalities, commercial enterprises, or other government-funded organizations.
Eligibility Verification: Confirm organization meets all AFA requirements, including operational history and board composition.
First-Time Applicants: Contact AFA at least three months before the application deadline.
Prepare Documentation: Include board-approved financial statements, strategic/business plan, and evidence of industry-standard artist fees.
Application Submission: Submit via the AFA portal following program guidelines.
Review and Evaluation: Applications are assessed on mandate alignment, governance, financial stability, programming quality, and artist engagement.
Grant Award and Reporting: Funds are allocated for three years. Organizations must comply with reporting requirements, use funds for intended purposes, and return unused or mismanaged funds.
Apply for Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) Major Arts Presenters Operating Funding Program
