Summer School Project Funding

This program provides grants covering up to 𝟰𝟬 % 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀 to support residence‑based arts summer school initiatives by Alberta‑registered not‑for‑profit organisations, enabling intensive training for youth aged 11–19 across disciplines with local professional artists.

Alberta Foundation for the Arts

Overview of the Summer School Project Funding program:

This funding initiative supports residence‑based art summer schools in Alberta, offering arts‑intensive training via technical skills workshops with professional artists and instructors. It provides young participants from across the province an immersive creative environment lasting at least five consecutive days, with meals, supervision and accommodation, across disciplines such as dance, theatre, literary arts, visual arts, music and Indigenous arts

Benefits of the Summer School Project Funding program:

This grant reduces project costs by funding up to 40% of eligible expenses. It supports high-quality, residence-based summer arts programs for Alberta youth, enabling access to intensive training with professional artists. Organisations gain credibility, strengthen their programming, and expand reach across the province. Partnership opportunities and required reporting help build sustainability and accountability.

Eligibility criteria of the Summer School Project Funding program:

Registered as a notforprofit organisation under Alberta legislation for at least one year before the deadline.
Operational for at least 12 months prior to application.
At least 50 % of board members or ruling council members must be Alberta residents.
Demonstrate good governance, efficient administration and fiscal responsibility.
Show financial stability for at least one year, as assessed by AFA.
Operate as a standalone entity at arms length from municipalities, schools or commercial enterprises.
Hold the authority to provide residencebased programming for minors.
Have prior experience designing or delivering residencebased art programming.
Previous AFA recipients must have met all reporting obligations to remain eligible.
Partnership applications: allowable when two or more eligible organisations apply together. Must designate one primary organisation responsible for control, shared responsibility, joint learning and outcomes beyond normal programming