PORT ALBERNI – New Democrat MLA Josie Osborne says more people on the Mid-Island will benefit from improved arts spaces and facilities thanks to the BC New Democrat government’s continued support of artists throughout B.C.

“I am excited to see this funding go towards the Qualicum First Nation and Uchucklesaht Tribe Government,” says Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim. “I know their arts and cultural activities will flourish even more with this support, benefitting all of their community members.”

Two local First Nations are receiving Arts Infrastructure grants. Qualicum First Nation is receiving $40,000 for specialized arts equipment, and Uchucklesaht Tribe Government is receiving $75,000 for capital improvements

Through the Arts Infrastructure Program a total of 84 arts and cultural organizations will share in $4 million in grant funding. The program provides grants to arts and cultural organizations to develop and enhance spaces that support B.C.’s arts and cultural practitioners. Eligible activities include planning and consultation and capital improvements, such as improving safety features; increasing accessibility; or purchasing specialized equipment.

In April, the BC Arts Council introduced its Extending Foundations: Action Plan 2022-2024 which marked a shift in focus in the way the council provides funding to respond to calls to action for reconciliation, diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

In alignment with these commitments, 50 per cent of grants in this recent round of Arts infrastructure funding was distributed to organizations from rural or remote communities or those led by or rooted in Indigenous and equity-deserving communities.

Learn More:

To learn more about these grants and see the list of recipients, visit: news.gov.bc.ca/26762