The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) has released its 2026 funding calendar, offering essential support for artists and organizations across all disciplines. Whether you are an individual creator or a collective, these grants provide the financial backing needed to develop new work and engage the community.
Funding Categories Include:
Literary Arts: Support for novelists, poets, and spoken word artists.
Performing Arts: Deadlines for theatre, dance, and music creation.
Visual & Media Arts: Grants for exhibitions, film, digital media, and craft.
Community & Education: Funding for artist residencies in schools and local communities.
Indigenous & Francophone Arts: Dedicated streams for culturally specific programming.
Key Changes for 2026: The OAC has streamlined its processes, including the launch of a new consolidated Ontario Arts Operating Fund for organizations. Most project application forms open in the Nova portal approximately two months before their deadlines.
Plan Your Application: Deadlines are staggered throughout the year, with major intakes in March, May, September, and October. Don't miss your window to secure provincial funding for your next project.