Creative Catalyst Program

In August 2023, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) Council voted unanimously in favour of a proposal spearheaded by local arts professionals. The proposal outlined a program to support the creation and presentation of artistic works within the CBRM, with small awards acting as a catalyst for artist development in the community.

The program will administer non-repayable awards of $500-2,500. Artists will receive their award following their attestation of the terms and conditions, and be expected to complete a final report upon completion of the project. Projects will be assessed by a panel of arts professionals based on a series of criteria set by the program administrator. Successful applications will demonstrate a combination of artistic merit, quality of work, feasibility and artistic growth of the applicant.

Artists of all skill levels and all mediums who meet eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. Consideration will be made for projects created by marginalized or under-represented populations, new or emerging artists, and artists living with self-defined barriers, and for projects created or presented outside of urban areas of the CBRM.

Applications for the 2025-26 year are now closed.

To be eligible to apply, one must be:

• 16 years of age or older
• Current resident of the CBRM
• Creating and presenting NEW artistic work
• Presenting the project within the CBRM
• Project completion by February 28, 2026

If you have any questions regarding this program or the application process, please email connectarts@cbrm.ns.ca