New Brunswick is putting $1.5 million toward strengthening its arts sector.
Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Isabelle Theriault said the support will help arts organizations manage rising costs and maintain cultural programming across the province.
“This is the first significant increase to the program in nearly 11 years,” Theriault said in a government release.
The funding is being directed to the Operational Support Program, which replaced the province’s former core funding model earlier this year.
Administration of the program was transferred in March to the New Brunswick Arts Board, known as Arts NB.
The program provides stable funding over three years and now totals $3.29 million annually.
Arts NB chair Jason Guerrette said the additional support will help strengthen arts organizations and the work of professional artists.
“This support will contribute to stimulating artistic creation and production,” Guerrette said.
The province said the announcement builds on the Status of the Artist Act, adopted last year, which recognizes the profession of artist and promotes fair compensation.
Theriault said the new funding is aimed at supporting the long‑term viability of arts organizations.
Matt Carter, executive director of the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, said rising operational costs and cost‑of‑living pressures are creating challenges for arts accessibility.
He said the new funding will help address financial pressures while supporting the cultural identity and social cohesion of communities.
Project‑based funding and sector development programs will continue to be administered by the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture.
Details on the Operational Support Program are available through Arts NB.
