County launches new grant program to support arts, culture and heritage sectors

Simcoe County news release

The County of Simcoe is pleased to announce the launch of its new Arts, Culture and Heritage (Build, Natural and Environmental) Grant Program. The program, which was recently approved by County Council on December 8, 2015, aligns with the County’s goals to grow, support and attract economic growth across various sectors.

“We have vibrant arts, culture and heritage sectors that play a significant role in the economic wellbeing of our communities,” said Warden Gerry Marshall. “Our residents have a tremendously creative and entrepreneurial spirit. This grant will foster growth and continue to establish Simcoe County as one of Ontario’s top cultural destinations.”

The vision of this grant program is to support and enhance the arts, culture and heritage sectors in Simcoe County through:

Building organizational capability and sustainability in existing and new local cultural organizations
Investing in community-based cultural activities that promote awareness, access, participation and appreciation of arts and heritage
Encouraging collaborative opportunities and partnerships
Interested applicants are asked to submit their expression of interest by January 8, 2016. Applications will be accepted for three category streams: Capacity Building; Project; and Sustainability.

All applications will be reviewed by the County of Simcoe’s Grant Program Task Force, consisting of appointed County Councillors with support from County staff. The grant program will provide up to $200,000 in annual funding which will be divided among successful candidates based on program requirements, objectives and overall benefit to the entire region.

Further details and application guidelines can be found at http://www.simcoe.ca/dpt/fin/grants.