A Manitoba arts organization that awards grants to homegrown talent will get more funding, the province says.
The Manitoba Arts Council, an arm’s-length provincial agency, will receive $13.7 million this year, which amounts to an extra $1 million or an eight per cent increase in annual funding, Premier Wab Kinew announced at a news conference Friday.
Part of the hope behind the new money is to keep young people in Manitoba, he said.
“I have to think that part of the offer that we’re making to our kids and grandkids is not only is there going to be a great future for you when it comes to jobs and the economy, but there’s also going to be that exciting creative scene that brings a life in this province,” Kinew said.
The arts council disburses about $8.4 million in operating support to just over 100 organizations, and $3.5 million in project grants to organizations such as the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Opera and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, the province said in a news release.
Smaller arts organizations and 550 individuals also receive grants from the council, and in 2024, over 25 new organizations and 40 new projects by individual artists will receive support, the province said.
The Manitoba Centennial Centre Corp. is also getting a $500,000 funding boost, raising their funding to $3 million.
Manitoba artists help define the province’s identity, Kinew said.
“This is an investment that is for the arts community. This is an investment for the broader community as well.”