Equity Grants

Overview of the Equity Grants program:

The Equity Grant Program, administered by the Capital Regional District (CRD) Arts & Culture Support Service, is designed to support arts initiatives that address systemic barriers and promote inclusivity. The program provides funding to projects led by or benefiting equity-seeking communities, such as Indigenous people, racialized individuals, LGBTQ2+, Deaf persons, and those with physical or mental disabilities. This grant empowers underrepresented groups by enabling them to create, develop, and share artistic works that reflect their unique experiences and cultural identities. Supported activities include a broad range of disciplines such as visual arts, theater, storytelling, dance, film, music, and arts festivals. Projects must align with CRD’s equity goals, demonstrating meaningful benefits to participating communities while expanding access to arts and culture. Eligible applicants include registered not-for-profit societies based in the CRD or groups working with Sponsor Societies. The grant prioritizes initiatives that strengthen equity, diversity, inclusion, and cultural self-determination within the Capital Region. By fostering new collaborations, innovative programs, and opportunities for artistic expression, the Equity Grant Program plays a crucial role in building a more inclusive and vibrant arts sector.

Benefits of the Equity Grants program:

• Advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and cultural self-determination in the CRD arts sector.
• Provide opportunities for underrepresented communities to lead or benefit from artistic projects.
• Support arts activities that enhance access and create meaningful impacts within the Capital Region.

Eligibility criteria of the Equity Grants program:

• Registered Not-for-Profit Organizations
• Not-for-profit organizations can apply for an Equity Grant if they:
• Are registered in BC
• Are embedded in, or serve a marginalized community
• Have a physical address in a participating jurisdiction (Esquimalt, Highlands, Metchosin, Oak Bay, Saanich, Sooke, Southern Gulf Islands, Victoria, View Royal)
• Project Leads (Person or Group) with a Willing Sponsor Society
• Project leads can apply for an Equity Grant if:
• They are part of a marginalized community
• They have obtained a willing sponsor society who:
• Has a physical address in a participating jurisdiction (Esquimalt, Highlands, Metchosin, Oak Bay, Saanich, Sooke, Southern Gulf Islands, Victoria, View Royal)
• Does not have overdue payments to any local government
• Is not bankrupt, seeking creditor protection, unable to pay debts when they are due, or under court supervision
• Organizations CAN still apply for an Operating or Project Grant while acting as a sponsor society*