The COVID-19 pandemic is interrupting the work and livelihoods of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists and cultural workers in unique ways. That’s why the Council is contributing to Community Cares: Emergency Response Fund for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Individuals Working in the Arts to provide $1,000 to individuals to sustain them through this difficult time.

This fund is a partnership with the Aboriginal Curatorial Collective, the Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance, the Indigenous Screen Office, and the Inuit Art Foundation. The Canada Council for the Arts is providing the financial contribution for this initiative, while the Aboriginal Curatorial collective will administer and distribute the funds.

Am I eligible for this fund?

You are eligible for this fund if you are:

• a First Nations, Inuit, or Métis individual working in the arts and culture sector whose art practice has been negatively impacted by COVID-19;
• at least 18 years of age; and,
• a Canadian citizen or eligible for Canadian citizenship.

Applications to this fund will not count towards the maximum number of applications that can be submitted to the Canada Council each year (from 1 March – 28/29 February).

I fit the criteria—what else do I need to know before applying? 

Individuals can apply to this fund anytime until September 15, 2020, or until the funding envelope has been allocated as funds are limited and will be delivered on a first come, first served basis. 

In order to apply, you will need to submit an application in the form of an email, video, telephone, or online form that provides information on:

• your artistic practice and how long you have been working in the arts;
• your affiliation or connection with your Indigenous community or communities;
• how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected your work/artistic opportunities; and,
• how this fund will help you as a person working in the arts sector during the pandemic.

You will also have the option of submitting a sample of your work—be it photographic, video, or text material (but this is not mandatory).

Ready to apply?

You can read the guidelines and apply for the Community Cares Fund on the Aboriginal Curatorial Collective’s website.

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