Guidelines Released: Indigenous Programs
The guidelines for the Original Peoples Investment Program (OPIP) and the Indigenous Cultural Connections Program (formerly the Indigenous Artist Microgrant) for 2025 are now available. We are hosting an in-person and an online Community Gathering for First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists, artist collectives and organizations interested in applying to Indigenous programs at Calgary Arts Development (details below).
Original Peoples Investment Program
The Original Peoples Investment Program provides one-time project funding to First Nation, Métis and Inuit individual artists, artist collectives and Indigenous-led and -centred arts organizations in Treaty 7.
This program supports the innovation, preservation and revitalization of First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) art through art-based projects that are supported and validated by FNMI artists, community, Elders and Knowledge Keepers. We recognize and support both traditional and contemporary Indigenous artists and arts practices within this program.
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.
Applications for the Original Peoples Investment Program open on August 20, 2025, and the deadline to apply is September 24, 2025. Read the program guidelines here.
Indigenous Cultural Connections Program
The Indigenous Cultural Connections Program provides one-time funding to First Nation, Métis and Inuit individual artists and artist collectives living and working in the Treaty 7 region working on the preservation, maintenance and revival of Indigenous culture, traditions or forms.
The program supports projects related to the crafting and creation of regalia and projects related to traditional methods and forms, including mentorship, training and knowledge sharing.
Projects can begin, but cannot be fully completed, before the application deadline of September 24, 2025. Projects funded through this program must be completed by March 31, 2027.
Applicants may apply for up to $7,500. Total funding available for this program is $100,000.
Applications for the Indigenous Cultural Connections Program open on April 23, 2025 and the deadline to apply is May 28, 2025. Read the program guidelines here.
Community Gatherings
Join us for a community gathering, either in-person or online, where we will be hosting conversations and introductions with local artists and Calgary Arts Development staff. During each gathering we will be presenting the guidelines for this year’s Indigenous programs: the Indigenous Cultural Connections Program and the Original Peoples Investment Program.
This is an opportunity to connect with Indigenous artists from different artistic backgrounds and learn more about what kind of projects are eligible in each program. Community Investment program staff will be present to share stories and things to consider when applying for a grant.
These gatherings are open to First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists, artist collectives and organizations interested in applying to Indigenous programs at Calgary Arts Development.
Which gathering is right for you?
The difference between each gathering is how we meet and the time we have, but the same grant program information will be shared at both. We recommend choosing the option that works best for you.
The in-person gathering will be a day event with lunch provided. You will have a chance to meet other artists, meet Calgary Arts Development staff, share your own stories and ask questions.
The online gathering will be a shorter afternoon event held over Zoom. We will share information about Indigenous programs and there will be space for asking your questions and learning from questions by other artists.
In-person Gathering
Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Time: 10am – 4pm
Location: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (750 9 Ave. SE)
RSVP: Register here
This event is free with registration — spots are limited, so we encourage you to register early.
Our Director, Reconciliation & Good Relations, Sable Sweetgrass, will lead the morning session with introductions. This is an opportunity to share stories, learn more about our community and get to know the Community Investment team. We will be providing lunch and snacks during the day.
In the afternoon, our Community Investment Program Specialist, Richelle Bear Hat, will lead a presentation about the Indigenous programs you can apply to throughout the year. This is also a chance to learn about other grant programs offered at Calgary Arts Development that are not specifically Indigenous but are open to Indigenous applicants as well.
We will cover things to think about when starting your application and the different kinds of supports you can access throughout the application process.
Online Gathering
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 3 – 5pm
Location: Online via Zoom
RSVP: Register here
This event is free with registration.
Community Investment Program Specialist, Richelle Bear Hat will share the guidelines for each Indigenous Program available this year as well as Calgary Arts Development’s application process and different things to consider when putting together an application. Afterwards there will be an opportunity to ask questions and learn from questions asked by other artists.
If you are an artist with specific access needs or require translation or interpretation services, please let us know and we will arrange to make sure you have all the support and information you need to fairly access the application process. This may require booking a one-on-one session with us instead.
If you need support with childcare to attend either gathering, please reach out to Program Specialist Richelle Bear Hat to discuss. There will be a question on the registration form where you can request support as well.
Questions? Email richelle.bearhat@calgaryartsdevelopment.com before registering.
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