Original Peoples Investment Program
Applications open July 6, 2026
March 16, 2026: Guidelines published
July 6, 2026: Applications open
Mid-July – mid-August 2026: Virtual open office spaces
July 29, 2026: Deadline to request feedback on your draft application
August 12, 2026: Application deadline (no applications accepted after 4:30 pm MT)
Mid-August – late October 2026: Evaluation of grants
Late October 2026: Notification of results
November 2026 – January 2027: Funds distributed
Brief Overview
The Original Peoples Investment Program provides one-time project funding to First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) individual artists, FNMI artist collectives, and Indigenous-led and -centred arts organizations practising and operating in the Treaty 7 region.
This program supports the development of First Nations, Métis and Inuit art practices in any artistic discipline. Art-based projects can include research, experimentation, professional development and learning; the creation, development or production of artistic work; marketing and promotion; or presenting or sharing artistic work with the public. This program is supported and validated by FNMI artists, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and our Indigenous Advisory Committee.
Individual artists may apply for up to $20,000, artist collectives may apply for up to $25,000, and Indigenous arts organizations may apply for up to $30,000.
Total funding available for this program is $750,000.
If you have questions about this program or need help applying, please contact Richelle Bear Hat, Community Investment Program Specialist, at richelle.bearhat@calgaryartsdevelopment.com or 403.264.5330 ext. 125.
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