Local organizations secure grant funding

Arts and culture organizations are getting an extra boost to help keep the sector resilient as B.C.’s economy works to recover from the pandemic.

“I know how difficult this past year has been for artists, without being able to connect with people in our communities,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Our government is working with arts leaders and the Office of the Provincial Health Officer to plan a safe return, because we know how important art is for our mental health and well-being. In the meantime, we are stepping up and providing an additional $16 million in supports to people, arts organizations and venues.”

To help arts and culture organizations stay resilient, the B.C. government is providing:

* $14 million in new one-time supplements to 588 arts and culture organizations; and

* an additional $2 million to help 47 organizations improve their existing spaces.

Through the latest round of grant funding, the Merritt Dance Society, and the Nicola Valley Arts Council are set to receive funding. The exact dollar figures heading to the organizations was not made public in the release.