Original Peoples Investment Program

Overview of the Original Peoples Investment Program program:

The Original Peoples Investment Program 2025, administered by Calgary Arts Development, is designed to support the vital work of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists, collectives, and organizations in Treaty 7 territory, including Calgary (Mohkinstsis). The program is rooted in Indigenous values, relational protocols, and a commitment to equity and reconciliation. It provides funding to Indigenous individuals and groups for artistic creation, knowledge transfer, cultural preservation, and community-based projects that reflect Indigenous ways of knowing and being. This investment is not restricted to traditional art forms—it supports all disciplines, including contemporary, experimental, and interdisciplinary practices. The program welcomes both emerging and established artists and provides flexibility to accommodate different project timelines and community needs. Funding is available for projects like new artistic works, community knowledge-sharing events, storytelling, dance, visual arts, music, performance, and land-based practices. The assessment process is guided by Indigenous peer evaluators who consider the cultural, artistic, and community impact of the proposals, as well as the integrity of the project in representing Indigenous values and protocols. The program is also grounded in the philosophy of “ethical space,” emphasizing mutual respect, relational accountability, and cultural safety. It does not require applicants to conform to Western grant writing norms; oral and video submissions are accepted, and support is available for preparing applications.

Benefits of the Original Peoples Investment Program program:

• Flexible and culturally safe grant process tailored for Indigenous applicants
• Supports a wide range of artistic and cultural practices
• No requirement for formal nonprofit status (individuals and collectives may apply)
• Oral, video, and written applications accepted
• Application coaching and support available
• Evaluations by Indigenous peer reviewers
• Encourages knowledge sharing, land-based practices, and intergenerational collaboration
• Helps preserve and revitalize Indigenous languages and traditions
• Promotes reconciliation through Indigenous-led arts and culture

Eligibility criteria of the Original Peoples Investment Program program:

• Applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be First Nations (Status or Non-Status), Metis, or Inuit
• Reside in or have meaningful connection to Calgary/Mohkinstsis and Treaty 7 region
• Be a professional or emerging Indigenous artist, a collective, or Indigenous-led organization
• Projects must be arts-based, culturally relevant, or support Indigenous knowledge systems
• No requirement for nonprofit incorporation
• Applicants must demonstrate Indigenous leadership and community connection
• Projects must be completed in 2025