Abbotsford – To help support the creation of new community activities, programs and events, the City of Abbotsford has launched its first Arts and Culture Grant Program. The new dedicated program will distribute $25,000 in grants to local artists, cultural practitioners, producers and nonprofit cultural organizations to bolster community-led cultural programs, events and activities.
The goal of this new grant program is to increase opportunities for community members to connect and build social cohesion through arts and culture, while stimulating economic development and strengthening Abbotsford’s vibrant network of professional artists, cultural practitioners, producers and creators.
“As the cultural and economic Hub of the Fraser Valley, one of Council’s strategic goals is to foster an inclusive and connected community where residents can contribute and participate in a variety of activities that strengthen the vitality and social cohesion of our City,” said Ross Siemens, Mayor of Abbotsford. “This new grant program will help us achieve this goal by making arts and culture more accessible and plentiful in Abbotsford.”
The program encourages collaboration within the cultural sector and with local organizations and businesses. Grants will be awarded to cultural creators and cultural organizations within Abbotsford and applications will be evaluated based on their commitment to community engagement, artistic merit or cultural significance, demonstrated financial need, and applicant experience.
Implementing this new Arts and Culture Grant Program was prioritized as one of the “5 Big Moves” in the City’s Culture Connect Strategy, which was adopted by Abbotsford Council in 2022 and significantly contributes to the City’s strategic position as the cultural and economic hub of the Fraser Valley.
Applications are being accepted until January 31, 2026, and are open to all Abbotsford arts, culture and heritage practitioners. Grant recipients will be announced in March 2026. For grant applications or for more information on funding categories and program criteria, visit www.abbotsford.ca/culture-grants.
