Operating Assistance: Museums and Indigenous Cultural Centres

Overview

Operating Assistance provides funding to assist the general operations of established museums and Indigenous cultural centres that sustain an annual artistic or cultural history program encompassing exhibitions, creation, presentation, collections, dissemination, and public program activities.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: October 8, 2026 (11:59 p.m. PT)
• Results announced: Late February/early March 2027

Eligibility

Applicants must be established museums or Indigenous cultural centres meeting all program eligibility requirements, including any funding history requirements outlined in the guidelines. This intake is open to both returning and new applicants within eligible operating assistance streams.

Funding

Funding is awarded for a one-year term, with the possibility of a second-year rollover. Limited funding is available for new organizations and increases to existing grant levels.

Important Notes

Organizations receiving Operating Assistance are no longer eligible for Accelerate top-up funding. Applicants not receiving Operating Assistance but eligible for the Accelerate Program as an equity deserving or regional arts organization may be recommended to receive an Accelerate grant based on this application. Do not submit a separate Accelerate application.

How to Apply

• Applicants may submit portions of their application through audio or video recordings with detailed instructions provided within the application form
• Register with CADAC and begin entering required data before September 24, 2026

Assessment

Applications are assessed through a peer review process using published assessment criteria. The program prioritizes reconciliation, equity, diversity, inclusion, and access, alongside supporting a sustainable sector.

Contact

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 236-478-2560