Encore! Prince Edward Island Theatre Revitalization Program

graphic banner for the theatre revitalization program

*PLEASE NOTE: This program is no longer accepting applications.*

Prince Edward Island has a rich history in performing arts, from ceilidhs to world-renowned and record holding stage performances. Island musicians, dancers, storytellers, and writers need modern and welcoming performing art spaces to showcase their talent to residents and visitors to our province.

The Province of Prince Edward Island is launching Encore – The Prince Edward Island Theatre Revitalization Program for PEI-based performance venues and theatre companies.

What type of funding is available? 

The three available grants of this program will help support a diverse, equitable and sustainable performing arts sector on the Island with funding available in three categories:

  • Performance Venue Grant (up to $30,000)
  • Developing Audience Engagement Grant (up to $20,000)
  • Developing Engaging Content Grant (up to $10,000)

Performance Venue Grants

Grants for Performance Venues will provide funding for smaller performance venue projects that will improve audience experiences including but not limited to space planning, research, small building improvements and accessibility upgrades; ticketing system upgrades and to support business planning. Eligible projects outcomes must focus on improved audience experience.

Only costs directly related to the project will be eligible for funding support.

Developing Audience Engagement Grants

The Developing Audience Engagement grant will provide funding to (a) performance venues and (b) theatre companies based on PEI to hire an external expert to work with the organization to develop an audience engagement strategy. Supported activities will include exploring new programming models and artistic offerings and the creation and implementation of audience development strategies that include marketing activities including the creation of engaging content, campaign development and management. Eligible projects outcomes must focus on improved audience attendance.

Only costs directly related to the project will be eligible for funding support.

Developing Engaging Content Grants

Content will always remain one of the most important audience engagement strategies. This grant will enable the organization to engage with the creation of original material, adapt existing works, and workshop new ideas.

Only costs directly related to the project will be eligible for funding support.

What are the eligibility criteria for the program? 

To be eligible, professional performance venues and theatre companies must meet the following criteria:

  • Be based on Prince Edward Island;
  • Have a mandate to develop, create, produce, present and disseminate artistic work for the benefit of the performing arts sector (performing arts includes dance, music, theatre, multidisciplinary);
  • Been in operation and in good standing for a minimum of 12 months prior to April 2, 2024.

How do I apply for this grant? 

Applicants are highly encouraged to contact the Cultural Development Division of Innovation PEI (mamaccallum@gov.pe.ca) prior to submitting application. 

Download the application form here. Once completed, please email it to Michelle MacCallum (mamaccallum@gov.pe.ca). 

*Please note that applicants will receive an email confirming receipt of their application materials within 2 business days. Applicants who have not received confirmation should follow up with Michelle MacCallum. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that their applications have been received.

What do I need to complete my application? 

Your application must include the following:

  • A project description that details how the project will be executed. Your project description should answer the following questions:
    • What are you doing?
    • How will you do it?
    • Why is this project a priority for your organization?
    • When will the work take place?
    • Who will carry out the work?
  • A detailed project budget
  • Non-profit registration # or business registration #
  • Board and senior management of organization
  • Audited financial statements for previous year (signed)
  • Proof of $2M insurance (minimum)

What is the deadline to apply for a grant?

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis from April 3, 2024 until available funds have been maxed out. Applicants may submit only one application per grant per intake.

How will applications be assessed?

After applicant and project eligibility have been confirmed, applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis by Innovation PEI Cultural Development Division staff according to the priorities of the program.

When will I be notified of a decision?

All applicants will be advised of the assessment decision via e-mail by the Cultural Development Division once completed applications have been reviewed in full.

*Time-sensitive proposals will receive priority consideration and all efforts will be made to assess these applications and provide notification of results in order to meet the client’s project timeline. 

Who do I contact with questions or for additional support?

Michelle MacCallum

Director of Cultural Development

Phone: 902-213-1589
mamaccallum@gov.pe.ca
Innovation PEI
94 Euston Street, Charlottetown

Innovation PEI

General Inquiries

Cultural Development Division, Innovation PEI
94 Euston Street
PO Box 910
Charlottetown, PE C1A 7L9
Telephone: 902-368-6300
Toll-free (North America): 1-800-563-3734
Fax: 902-368-6301

cultureinfo@gov.pe.ca