ArtsNL awards $100,000 to community arts groups across province

ArtsNL has awarded $100,000 in funding to 23 community-based arts organizations across Newfoundland and Labrador through its 2025–26 Community Arts Program.

The grants will support a wide range of projects, including arts workshops, productions, presentations, new creative works, adjudication, artist fees and travel costs. The program is aimed at not-for-profit groups working at the community level.

ArtsNL executive director Melanie Martin said the funding helps strengthen connections through shared creative experiences.

“The Community Arts Program supports projects that connect people through shared creative experiences,” Martin said in a release. “These initiatives help build relationships, encourage participation, and create spaces where communities can come together and express who they are.”

Groups receiving funding include festivals, choirs, theatre companies, music organizations and youth-focused arts groups from across the province. Individual grant amounts range from $3,500 to $4,700.

Among the recipients are the Atlantic Guitar Society, CALOS Youth Orchestras, Mummers Festival Inc., Shakespeare by the Sea Festival Inc., the Newfoundland and Labrador Drama Society, and Stella’s Circle Inclusion Choir.

ArtsNL said applications are now open for the next round of Community Arts Program funding, with a deadline of Oct. 1, 2026.