Based on community feedback, the Capital Regional District (CRD) Arts and Culture Support Service is launching a new grant stream to aid in capacity building. 

The Grow Forward grants will prioritize mentorship, planning and significant strategic adaptations to their operations for the regionB次元官网网址檚 not-for-profit arts community. It replaces the Incubator Grant program.

The pilot program is based on B次元官网网址渧ery clear feedbackB次元官网网址� of whatB次元官网网址檚 needed, according to the chair of the arts commission. 

B次元官网网址淭he Grow Forward program will allow arts organizations to dedicate resources to organizational development and sectoral collaboration while still receiving support for their programming. The Capital Region is growing fast and we need to take a holistic approach to ensure that our regional arts ecosystem grows along with it,B次元官网网址� Marianne Alto said.

Applicants can receive up to $5,000 to navigate challenges and seize opportunities to build a stronger arts sector. 

Options include developing mentorships for arts leaders internally or between organizations; shifting business models or organizational structures; strategic partnerships and collaborations; and planning for leadership succession. 

Applications are open now through March 13 at 4:30 p.m.  Prospective applicants can learn more during an information session Feb. 27, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. 

While the CRD represents 13 municipalities and three electoral areas, the CRD Arts and Culture Support Service specifically is supported by Saanich, Victoria, Oak Bay, Esquimalt, View Royal, Highlands, Metchosin, Sooke and Southern Gulf Islands. 

Visit visit  to learn more and register for the Feb. 27 session.