Funding an Uncertain Future: Alternative paths for supporting the Arts

Society is going through a period of upheaval.

Models for making and paying for culture are increasingly uncertain. Artificial intelligence (AI) is creating uncertainty about the future of work, ecological and social sustainability are becoming more concerning as we view the effects of climate change, and political volatility.

Meanwhile, the Canada Council for the Arts has reduced its funding by more than $20 million over the next three years, sponsors are dropping out of major events, and a reduction in both the number and value of charitable donations means that arts organizations are strapped. In a time of uncertainty, coming out of a global pandemic that reduced audience sizes, these organizations need to find new ways to sustain themselves.

There is hope.

Commitments from the Metcalf Foundation in 2023 and the largest ever donation to Arts Commons in Calgary show that there is still support, especially for large and established organizations. But what is everyone else to do?

This event lays out the issues and discusses the solutions from a practical, business-focused perspective, aiming to educate about funding opportunities that may not be widely, or deeply, known.

Who is this event for?

Ultimately, if you care deeply about not just how the Arts can survive, but thrive, you're in the right place. Arts executives, board members, foundation holders, and supporters who want to get a real inside look into where our industry is will all find community here and value out of the speakers. Plus, there is ample time for connections and community building after the talks!

Presented in partnership with: Bygone Theatre, IG Wealth Management.

Catering provided by: En Ville Event Design and Catering.

Host or Publisher Adam