B.C. Creative Spaces program, a provincial government program launched earlier this year, has announced $500,000 in extra arts grants.
This funding is geared toward non-profit cultural organizations, First Nations and friendship centres to improve arts infrastructure for theatres, museums, and community art galleries, said Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Coralee Oakes Thursday.
The program was initially intended to be a one-year venture with funding of $1.25 million in 2012/13 and has now been extended into 2014, with the influx of half million dollars.
"Eligible activities include construction expansion, renovations of buildings with specific cultural
uses such as museums, community art centres, art galleries, rehearsal spaces and studios and the purchase of equipment such as stage lighting or sound systems," said Oakes.
Last year there was funding for 37 projects across the province, including construction of a long house for cultural celebrations on Haida Gwaii, renovations for Wells Sunset Theatre, upgrades to Fernie's The Arts Station, and a recording studio/rehearsal space in Dunster.
The deadline to apply is Dec. 9.
To be eligible for funding, organizations must have an active board of directors or band council and deliver arts and culture programs.
In 2013-14, the B.C. government increased funding for arts and culture to more than $60 million, about $7 million higher than last year. This year, the B.C. government provided the B.C. Arts Council with a record $24 million.
For information on how to apply for funding go to http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/arts_culture/index.htm.
