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Thirty-two organizations benefited this year from the Greater Sudbury arts and culture program, creating a positive economic impact in the community.

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The City of Greater Sudbury awarded $559,288 in support of the artistic, cultural and creative expression of local residents and groups. Recipient organizations reported leveraging $9.41 in other funding for every dollar from the municipality and they hosted more than 1,200 public activities for more than 126,000 participants.

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“Our community continues to be recognized nationally as a northern hub for arts and cultural excellence. I am proud to see new, unique projects take shape thanks to supports like the arts and culture grant program,” Mayor Paul Lefebvre said in a release.

“A lively arts and culture sector is a powerful economic driver in our community, which boosts local pride and visitors to our city. These investments enrich the lives of residents, while retaining local talent.”

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Established in 2005, the grant program:

– stimulates the growth and development of this important sector;

– increases its potential to attract and retain a talented and creative workforce; and

– is an investment in the quality of life for all residents.

The Greater Sudbury Development Corporation, which has approved nearly $7.4 million in funding for more than 120 local arts and culture organizations since 2007, administers the program.

“The arts and culture grants provide an opportunity to showcase our city’s rich diversity, culture and heritage,” said Jeff Portelance, chair of the development corporation board. “On behalf of the board, I want to thank our grant jury volunteers for their commitment to supporting community vibrancy in our city.”

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Applications for the 2024 program are now open for the operating stream. New this year, the project stream will be accepting applications in two separate intake rounds, with deadlines to be announced shortly.

The application process for project and operating grants is open to all who qualify. Some guidelines and application deadlines have changed for 2024, so visit the website for full details.

The development corporation is also seeking people to sit on two volunteer juries to assess applications. To apply, email [email protected] with your reasons for wishing to serve on the jury; your résumé; and a list of all direct affiliations with local arts and culture initiatives.

To learn more about the arts and culture grant program, visit investsudbury.ca/artsandculture.

[email protected]

Twitter: @SudburyStar

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