FAQs

Inspire Vancouver is the city’s cultural access program. It uses public funding to support nonprofit arts, culture, heritage and science organizations so people in our community can experience learning, creativity and connection. The program especially helps those who face barriers such as cost, transportation or disability.

The program is funded by a 0.1% cultural access sales tax—about one penny for every $10 spent, or roughly $30 per year for the average household. Inspire Vancouver is expected to invest nearly $7 million each year in community-based cultural experiences through grants.

Funding can support many kinds of public programs, including:

• School-based and youth learning programs
• Free or low-cost events, festivals and performances
• Exhibitions, workshops and lectures
• Cultural and science programs in neighborhoods and community spaces

Programs should be open to the public, with some exceptions for school-based programs.

Equity is central to the program. Inspire Vancouver prioritizes:

• Reducing barriers such as cost, transportation and accessibility
• Expanding cultural learning for youth
• Supporting programs by and for historically underrepresented communities
• Bringing arts, culture, heritage and science to neighborhoods with fewer resources

Applications are reviewed by panels of community members using published criteria. Recommendations go to the Culture, Arts and Heritage Commission for final approval. Inspire Vancouver staff can help guide applicants but do not score applications.

Eligible organizations may apply whenever a new grant cycle opens. Each application goes through a competitive review process. Prior funding does not guarantee future funding. Timelines, eligibility details and deadlines are posted on the Inspire Vancouver website and shared on social media.

Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations whose main purpose is to advance or preserve arts, culture, heritage or science, and who provide public programs or experiences for Vancouver residents.

• Organizations outside Vancouver may apply if most of their programming happens in the city or primarily serves Vancouver residents
• Individuals can also apply for most grants with a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

Not necessarily. The organization’s primary mission must focus on arts, culture, heritage or science.

Organizations without nonprofit status may be eligible by partnering with a fiscal sponsor, a nonprofit that manages administrative and financial responsibilities for the project.

No. Government organizations, including the City of Vancouver, are not eligible for funds. However, cultural nonprofits operating in city facilities can receive funding for expenses or tenant improvements. Note: This FAQ is a general overview. Specific funding rounds may include additional requirements or guidelines.

Payment schedules vary depending on the grant type and award amount.

Yes. Funds cannot be used for:

• Commercial or for-profit activities
• Fundraisers or galas
• Debt service or endowment building
• Programs promoting political agendas or religious practices
• Programs that primarily happen outside Vancouver

Yes. Funding can cover:

• Staff, contractors and artists’ compensation
• Supplies, equipment and technology
• Rent, insurance, permits and marketing
• Capacity-building and sustainability efforts for public programs