Seven not-for-profit arts and culture organizations will benefit from just over $216,000 in Cultural Infrastructure Grant (CIG) program funding from the City of Victoria in 2023.
The CIG program provides grant funding to local not-for-profit organizations that own or operate cultural facilities to assist with purchasing specialized equipment, accessibility and facility upgrades or feasibility and planning studies. It can also be used to support the expansion and acquisition of new cultural spaces.
The Belfry Theatre Society, Blue Bridge Theatre Society and Pacific Opera Victoria are receiving funding for specialized audio-visual and lighting equipment to support increased visual and auditory experiences for visitors and enhance capabilities for artistic production. The Victoria Curling Club and the Intrepid Theatre Company Society are receiving funding for physical upgrades to increase the amount of usable space available for music and performing arts events and the Victoria Conservatory of Music is receiving funding for a feasibility study to explore expanding its existing cultural facility. The Other Guys Theatre Company Society is receiving support for a new performing arts space in the downtown core.
The CIG program is a direct-action item in the Create Victoria Arts and Culture Master Plan. This program provides funding to increase the accessibility, affordability and availability of cultural venues, which is a major goal of Create Victoria. The grant program helps leverage financial contributions from other levels of government and private contributions.
The CIG program is aligned with Arts, Culture, Music, Sport and Entertainment, which is one of eight Council priorities in the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. Thriving arts and culture organizations are important contributors to community growth and well-being in Victoria. In 2022, the sector contributed $435.8 million to the local economy and employed 5,588 people in the region. The creative economy also attracts investments and tourists while creating jobs and business growth across other sectors.
A full list of grant recipients and projects is available here.