Arts and Culture Fund

Eligibility

To apply for BACF funding, you must be in the City of Burlington and be one of the following:

• An individual artist or arts and cultural collective (defined as three or more individuals) that exhibit high achievement in arts and culture programming
• An incorporated not-for-profit arts and culture organization, or a charitable arts and culture organization
• A multicultural group that fulfills a significant role in the Burlington community through the arts and culture

If you fall under one of these areas, you are not eligible for BACF support

• You have already received City funding this calendar year,
• Churches and religious institutions,
• City of Burlington employees,
• Schools, conservatories and other training or educational organizations or institutions.

Capital Costs are not eligible for BACF funding

BACF project funding may not be used for major capital expenses including:

• Equipment and fixtures,
• For-profit ventures or for-profit partners,
• Land,
• Operating costs,
• Facilities and,
• Public art projects through the public art program.

The program will not support:

• Any cost or reimbursement associated with ongoing or annual operating or administration costs
• Any expenses or financial commitments made prior to receiving official written grant approval
• Alcohol, tobacco or cannabis related products or gambling expenses
• Contingency or unexplained miscellaneous costs
• Infrastructure, construction, renovation, major purchases and equipment such as capital, property, etc.
• Retroactive funding for projects or events that have already occurred
• Any other expenditure that does not directly relate to the project

Objective and Overview

Objective: To nurture the capacity of the arts and cultural sector in Burlington, while fostering creativity, encouraging social cohesion, enhancing quality of life and stimulating cultural and economic development through direct investment.

The BACF is meant to support the creation and presentation of arts and cultural projects that reflect BACF objectives.

• We award project grants for a term of one year.
• Each applicant may apply for support for one project per year.
• Applicants are responsible for all aspects of their project, including securing the appropriate venue and insurance.

Adherence to guidelines and standards

BACF projects must adhere to all municipal, regional and provincial COVID-19 health and safety guidelines at the time of the application and implementation of the project. Projects must also adhere to municipal, provincial and federal regulatory compliance standards such as building codes, City bylaws, fire regulations, etc.

Re-applying for a following year

If you receive BACF funding in any year and re-apply to the grant program the following year, you must provide a final project report as part of your subsequent application form. You must also submit an application each year for projects that recur annually. These projects are decided on based on our normal assessment criteria and:

• Availability of funds in the context of funding priorities
• Innovation within the project
• Success of the project in the previous year

Funding

The maximum amount awarded for each project grant is $7,000. The City has discretion regarding the amount awarded and all decisions are final. Project grants are intended to support a specific activity or event taking place between April and March.

Awarded applicants must sign an agreement, recognizing their obligations. Once the agreement is signed, we will issue a cheque for 80 per cent of the grant. The remaining 20 per cent will be issued upon receipt of the final report, as well as remaining invoices and other documents outlined in the agreement. Applicants will not be eligible to receive BACF funding until all required reports have been submitted and accepted by the City.

If you are in default of your grant agreement, you may be required to return funds to the City and you may be ineligible for future grants.

Adjudication and assessment criteria

There are four key areas of evaluation, including:

• Artistic merit (40 per cent of scoring)
• Program merit and strategic initiative (20 per cent of scoring)
• City-wide and community impact (20 per cent of scoring)
• Economic impact (20 per cent of scoring)

The applicant's recent activities, as well as proposed ones, are also considered during assessment.

Applications are reviewed, in part, by a peer assessment jury. Jury members evaluate the artistic merit criteria of BACF applications. They are selected and approved by the Arts and Culture Council of Burlington. Members are made up of representatives from the arts and culture sector, including:

• Arts and cultural professionals
• Practitioners and/or individuals who are knowledgeable in the arts and culture, and maintain high standing in the arts and cultural community

Artistic merit

Artistic merit scoring is determined by:

• A comprehensive work plan that is ready for implementation
• Contributions to the development of arts and culture in Burlington
• Distinctiveness of the applicant's activities in relation to comparable activities in Burlington. Does the project provide unique and innovative opportunities for artists, other arts and cultural organizations, and the public?
• Evidence of planning in place to support the proposal and/or ongoing organizational capacity (such as realistic schedules, timelines, planning practices, etc.)
• Qualified, professional leadership
• Quality or value of the project and the implementation team/program

Program merit and strategic initiative

Program merit and strategic initiative scoring is determined by clearly articulated outcomes expected for the project. Outcomes should align with the City's Strategic Plan community building through arts and culture.

Does the project:

1. Encourage better collaboration and coordination among existing and new cultural partners
2. Encourage multiculturalism and inclusion
3. Encourage targeted cultural programming that engages newcomers and a more diverse audience with the goal of promoting cultural diversity
4. Reach out to new and diverse communities to expand Burlington's cultural fabric
5. Support new and existing cultural celebrations and initiatives

City-wide and community impact

City-wide and community impact scoring is determined by:

• Demonstrated support from the community as determined by partnerships, collaborations, sponsorship support, in-kind support, volunteers, etc.
• Level of engagement with other arts and cultural organizations, artists and community groups in Burlington. Evidence of promotional and/or outreach strategies in place to encourage wide public participation, awareness and engagement
• Level of public access to the work, activities or services, and evidence of growing interest and attendance
• The applicant conducts their activities primarily in Burlington and for the benefit of Burlington residents. The applicant encourages the participation of all citizens in Burlington
• The applicant measures the success of the activities and programs of their organization on an ongoing basis and shares the results of these measures with the City and other interested stakeholders

Economic impact

Economic impact scoring is determined by:

• Direct and indirect spending in Burlington and attraction of tourists to Burlington
• Employment and training opportunities for Burlington artists, cultural workers and contractors
• Evidence of financial stability and accountability as demonstrated through prior financial performance, achievable and balanced budgets and fiscal management
• Strong and successful relationships and partnerships with the local business and not-for-profit community
• The ability to demonstrate how grant funding will directly support the project
• The applicant demonstrates initiative and success in generating revenue outside of the BACF

Approved Projects for 2025/2026

View and subscribe to our news and notices for updates and details on BACF approved projects.

Project: The Artist’s Mark Juried Exhibit

Applicant: Burlington Fine Arts Association

The Burlington Fine Arts Association (BFAA) is an artist collective of approximately 180 local artists. It is also the largest of the seven guilds of Arts Burlington. The Artist’s Mark is a ten-day juried art exhibit at the Burlington Centre Hub Space. The exhibition brings original artwork out of the gallery and into a more accessible community space to provide a unique celebration of local, contemporary art. Throughout the exhibition, participating artists will lead talks explaining their work and artistic practice. The program also includes artist presentations and outreach with an art display and workshops at local schools and retirement centres. The project was selected for its continued celebration of creativity as it supports local artists from the Burlington community.

Project: Authors in Your Neighbourhood

Applicant: Sylvia McNicoll

Authors in Your Neighbourhood encourages children to have fun! Interactions with local writers and illustrators help foster a love of reading and writing. This year, Authors in Your Neighbourhood has expanded to include five locally renowned writers and illustrators: Lana Button, Jennifer Faria, Jennifer Maruno, Sylvia McNicoll and Anitha Rao-Robinson. Through a series of seven workshops, they will each demonstrate and teach their craft. Children will have the chance to learn to write dialogue, describe characters and settings, structure plot and draw. Workshops will take place at the Burlington Public Library for over 250 children. Authors in Your Neighbourhood is also part of Burlington Public Library’s Literary Festival and I Read Canadian Day. The project was selected as it supports Burlington authors and illustrators and helps them foster the next generation of local talent.

Project: Burlington Latin Festival

Applicant: Latin Legacy Association

The Burlington Latin Festival is a cultural celebration that brings together a diverse range of artists, activities and vendors. Its goal is to promote the creativity, innovation and cultural exchange of the Burlington Latin community. The festival will showcase a variety of artforms including music, dance, Latin wellness classes and workshops, a parade and concerts. The Burlington Latin Festival will take place in Central Park on Aug. 23 and 24 and will feature a musical lineup that includes the rhythms of Salsa, Reggaeton, Merengue, Bachata, Cúmbia, Mariachi, Jazz and Samba. The dance program will feature contemporary dance, traditional folk dances from Latin America and a parade. The festival is free and includes workshops highlighting the various arts and crafts of Latin American culture. The project was selected for its cultural diversity that offers the community the chance to be a part of the Burlington Latin experience.

Project: Connecting Links

Applicant: Arnab Chakrabarty

Connecting Links is a workshop combining presentations from some of the top global talent in Indian Classical Music (ICM) with Burlington artists who are passionate about the musical genre. Led by Arnab Chakrabarty, sarod (Indian Lute) virtuoso, the event features Indian classical instrumental and vocal music, Kathak, a classical dance form and Tabla (percussion). Connecting Links brings together renowned multi-disciplinary ICM performers and local artists to connect and engage with families interested in learning about South Asian art, music and dance. The event features Indian classical dance, a vocal music session, Indian rhythm cycles, interactive sessions and workshop leader performances by Priyanka Tope, Zaheer-Abbas Janmohamed and Arnab Chakrabarty. This project was chosen for its diversity, support of Burlington musicians and its engagement with the community.

Project: Elizabeth Gardens Art Walk

Applicant: Elizabeth Gardens Creative Collective

The Fifth Annual Elizabeth Gardens Art Walk is a free one-day event that features thirty to forty local, artists, artisans, designers, musicians and arts facilitators. The event takes place in Burloak Waterfront Park on Aug. 23. Park visitors will be introduced to new, emerging and professional artists, artisans, makers and performers. It features demonstrations, art installations, musical performances and over fifteen interactive Art Experience Stations. A goal of the project is to help the community learn about the many talented artists and makers that live in Burlington. The project was chosen as it supports local artists, while engaging residents with new artistic practices in a safe, supportive environment. It offers participants the chance to learn about the importance of art and the value of connecting as a community.

Project: Free Community Cushion Concert Series for Burlington Families

Applicant: Chris McKhool, Sultans of String

Three-time JUNO Award nominees and Billboard charting band Sultans of String, led by Chris McKhool, will present a series of free concerts for children and families at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Concert themes include:

• Fiddlefire, exploring various world and jazz musical styles,
• Earth, Seas and Air, celebrating and nourishing our natural environment and
• Celebrate, providing audiences with a glimpse into the various customs, celebrations and festivities enjoyed across Canada.

All three concerts will involve the audience becoming part of the show on stage with the band. Featured performers include:

• Ernie and Maryem Tollar,
• Aviva Chernick,
• Shannon Thunderbird,
• Donné Roberts,
• Alberto Suarez,
• along with Chris McKhool, Kevin Laliberté and Drew Birston from the Sultans of String.

This project was selected for the diversity of local musicians, its focus on environmental and National teachings and its audience engagement.

Project: Golden Horseshoe Chorus Community Show

Applicant: Voices Music Collective

Voices Music Collective fosters a vibrant and inclusive choral community, uniting individuals of all ages, backgrounds and abilities through song. This free community concert aims to engage and enrich the Burlington community by providing an accessible, high-quality musical performance. Hosted by the Golden Horseshoe Women’s and Mixed Choruses, the concert will feature contemporary songs and old standards, showcasing the talent of local singers. The performance will foster a sense of community, celebrate local culture, and provide an opportunity for individuals and families to come together to support the arts. The chorus will perform four-part harmony a cappella and feature a variety of musical genres ranging from Pop favourites to Broadway standards. The project was selected for its support of local singers offering a wide variety of music for the community to enjoy.

Project: Halton Freedom Celebration Festival

Applicant: Halton Black History Awareness Society

The Halton Black History Awareness Society (HBHAS) celebrates Canada’s diverse community, roots and culture through education, enhancement and entertainment. HBHAS develops programs to erode racism, prejudice and stereotyping, while increasing knowledge of Canadian history and its cultural landscape. The Halton Freedom Celebration Festival features musical acts, children’s activities, heritage, historical and genealogical vendors while promoting inclusivity and community. The festival includes art in the park, cultural cuisine, basketball, and limbo competitions. Live music includes the best in Canadian R&B, Reggae, Soul, Funk, African, Cuban, Jazz Fusion, Soca and Pop. The Halton Freedom Celebration Festival takes place in Spencer Smith Park on Aug. 2 and is free to attend. This festival was selected for its programs to educate the community about Black history and culture through entertainment and engagement.

Project: RISE 2025: An Immersive Community Wellness Celebration

Applicant: Exisst SoulCare

Existt SoulCare is an artist collective that promotes community connection, creativity and well-being. RISE 2025 seeks to unite diverse communities through creative programming. The event will feature movement workshops, an interactive reflection practice, and an Afro-Caribbean and Central American contemporary dance performance featuring CinnaMoon Collective, accompanied by Vasu Bisht on the Hindustani flute. By merging live music, contemporary dance and interactive participation, RISE 2025 offers attendees an opportunity to connect with themselves and others, while fostering a sense of community belonging. The project was selected because of its inclusivity, support of Burlington performing artists and musicians, accessibility and community building.

Project: Sounds from Damascus - Unraveling Cultural Threads of Levant, Anatolia and Persia

Applicant: Mamoun Aburas

This concert by Sounds from Damascus is a unique cultural event that blends tradition with innovation. Through music, narrative and dance, the performance explores the rich historical legacies and artistic traditions of these ancient Middle Eastern lands. The concert will showcase the diversity of cultural traditions and narratives through an immersive performance and open a window to these ancient cultures. Sounds from Damascus is led by Mamoun Aburas and performers include Nour Kheder, Ruba Zouzou, Tamadur Al Khatib and 15 Middle Eastern musicians and vocalists showcasing traditional Syrian, Turkish and Persian music. The performance aims to create a vibrant and inclusive space that encourages dialogue and fosters community connections. The project was selected for its support of local singers offering traditional Middle Eastern music for the community to experience.

Project: Telling Tales Festival

Applicant: Telling Tales

The 17th Annual Telling Tales Festival returns to the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Hendrie Park on Sept. 27 and 28. The event is free and features over 50 of Canada’s leading children’s authors, illustrators, local musicians and storytellers whose stories and experiences reflect the diversity of festival participants. Guests can listen to stories behind a book’s creation, learn writing tips and meet local authors, attend interactive workshops, express their creativity in a craft tent with story-based art, and explore Hendrie Park’s sculpture collection. Telling Tales fosters family literacy skills that support mental health and a sense of well-being, by promoting a love of reading and an appreciation for the natural world. The festival is a celebration of community, volunteerism and collaboration. The project was selected as it supports Canadian authors, illustrators, local musicians and storytellers as they use story telling for community well-being.

Project: Use Your Words

Applicant: The Inspiration Initiative

The Use Your Words project is led by local artists Briar Emond, Vanessa Cress Lokos and Dominique Prevost. It has interactive opportunities for everyone to be creative. The project will take place on June 14 from noon to 4 p.m. in the Art Gallery of Burlington’s Living Room space. Activities include:

• silk screening on T-shirts,
• zines using recycled materials to create word-based art/collaging in the form of a zine,
• a speaker’s corner where guests can record themselves sharing meaningful words and
• a community reading circle.

The event unites professional artists, local poets, spoken word performers, Burlington Public Library, and the Art Gallery of Burlington with the public. This project was selected for its activities that encourage multicultural and intergenerational participation.

Project: Voice Burlington

Applicant: Burlington Symphony Orchestra

The Burlington Symphony Orchestra (BSO) produces orchestral and ensemble performances that inspire and engage large diverse audiences. The BSO’s mission is to showcase orchestral music to a broad community and perform live orchestral music that inspires, while providing opportunities for community engagement. Voice Burlington will offer a workshop series for Burlington residents culminating in a classical and musical theatre youth competition. By offering free workshops and a chance for aspiring singers to perform as a soloist with the BSO during their regular concert season, the project allows the BSO to enhance its programming and educational outreach and to connect with Burlington residents in a unique, meaningful way. The project was chosen for its engagement with local youth in the arts through accessible, barrier-free programming.

Glossary of terms

View our BACF glossary of terms.

Arts and Culture Collective

Three or more artists or cultural professionals whose project is focused primarily on artistic or cultural creation and presentation.

Charitable Arts and Culture Organization

A charitable organization whose mandate or mission is focused primarily on artistic or cultural creation and presentation.

Charitable Organization

To be considered charitable, an organization's purpose must be exclusively and legally charitable and it must be established for the benefit of the public or a sufficient segment of the public. It must also be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency as having charitable status under the Income Tax Act. Organizations so registered can issue tax receipts for charitable donations.

Community Arts and Culture Project

Broadly defined, a community arts and culture project involves a collaborative, creative process between a professional practicing artist and the community. It is a collective method of artmaking, engaging professional artists and self-defined communities through collaborative, artistic expression. It is as much about process as it is about the artistic product or outcome. A community arts and culture project provides a unique way for communities to express themselves and enable artists, through financial and other support, to engage in creative activity with communities.

Not-for-Profit Arts and Culture Organization

A not-for-profit organization whose mandate or mission is focused primarily on artistic or cultural creation and presentation.

Not-for-Profit Organization

An organization not conducted or maintained for the purpose of making a profit. Instead, it operates to serve a public good. Not-for-profit organizations are specifically incorporated as such. Any surplus generated by a not-for-profit organization is used by the organization for the purposes for which it is established.

Peer Assessment Jury

BACF jury members are arts and culture professionals, practitioners and/or individuals who are knowledgeable in the arts and culture with high standing in the arts and culture community. Jurors evaluate applications based on the artistic merit component of the application and provide feedback to city staff. Peer assessment ensures that the arts and culture community has a voice in how funds are distributed and that applications are evaluated by artists and other cultural experts with knowledge and experience of the specific art forms, art practices and communities involved. BACF peer assessment jury members are selected and approved by the Arts and Culture Council of Burlington.

Professional Artist

Someone who has developed skills through training and/or practice, is recognized as such by artists working in the same artistic tradition, has a history of public presentation or publication, seeks payment for their work and actively practices their art. Short breaks in artistic history are allowed. The source of this definition is the Ontario Arts Council.