March 16, 2026: Guidelines published and applications open
Mid-March – late April 2026: Virtual open office spaces
April 13, 2026: Deadline to request feedback on your draft application
April 22, 2026: Application deadline (no applications accepted after 4:30 pm MT)
Late April – early June 2026: Evaluation of grants
Mid-June 2026: Notification of results
June – July 2026: Funds distributed
Brief Overview
The Indigenous Cultural Connections Program provides one-time funding to First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) artists and FNMI artist collectives living and working in the Treaty 7 region. The goal of the program is to support activities and expenses related to the preservation, caretaking and revitalization of Indigenous cultural art making and traditions.
Eligible proposals may include:
Creation or crafting of regalia and cultural artwork (regalia, beading, tanning, carving, weaving, quillwork, etc.)
Learning cultural practices that support and further develop artistic practices (mentorship, ceremonies, training, knowledge sharing, Indigenous cultural drumming, singing and dancing, etc.)
Applicants may apply for up to $7,500.
Total funding available for this program is $100,000.