Calling All Indigenous Youth Artists Under 30!

Get ready to fund your art or media-based project with the We Matter Arts Grant!

This January and February 2025, We Matter is launching a special one-time Arts Grant to empower Indigenous youth through creative expression.

We recognize that arts and media projects can play a vital role in fostering mental well-being and health. Indigenous youth artists often need support, and that’s why We Matter created this grant. We want to encourage you to create works that promote mental wellness and cultural pride! By offering this opportunity, we hope to inspire Indigenous youth across Canada to share the message that their lives and well-being matter—and to amplify those voices through art and media.

If you’re passionate about creating, check out the guidelines below to see if your project is eligible!

Grant Details

  • Funding Amounts: $2,000 (or less for small projects) to $5,000 for larger projects.
  • Timeline: Projects must begin, progress, or be completed between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Projects at any stage of completion are eligible.

Examples of Eligible Projects

While we’re open to creative surprises, here are some ideas to inspire you:

Visual Arts

  • Mural painting celebrating local Indigenous culture.
  • Traditional regalia making or restoration with storytelling elements.
  • Beadwork projects for community displays.
  • Collaborative sculpture projects using natural materials.
  • Digital art highlighting Indigenous symbols and stories.
  • Carving workshops (e.g., masks, totem poles).

Media Projects

  • Short documentaries on Indigenous traditions or elders’ stories.
  • Podcast series featuring youth perspectives on cultural identity.
  • Animated films based on traditional myths or legends.
  • Social media campaigns showcasing Indigenous art or history through video.
  • Photo essays capturing Indigenous ceremonies or community life.

Performing Arts

  • Dance performances blending traditional and contemporary styles.
  • Spoken word events promoting Indigenous language revitalization.
  • Theatre productions inspired by Indigenous legends or history.
  • Youth bands or solo performances of original music.
  • Storytelling events with live traditional tales.

How to Apply:

  • Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date on when we are accepting applications.
  • Prior to submitting an application, check out the arts grant guidelines document below for more information.
  • If you need any support with an application or project just ask us, we are happy to help

Download the Arts Grant Guidelines here!

Guidelines

Application Timeline

  • Opens: January 15, 2025

  • Closes: February 15, 2025

Contact Us

If you have any questions, reach out to our Grant Coordinator at grants@wemattercampaign.org.