Community-based arts and cultural organizations in British Columbia can apply now for project assistance funding from the BC Arts Council to help produce local arts festivals.

Awards under this program are intended to assist with the fees paid to professional artists and technicians engaged for the event. Eligible projects may include presentation of original work, existing repertoire or exhibitions, or exploration of diverse work. Festivals may feature a combination of local and touring artists. Awards will provide up to a maximum of $7,500. Priority will be given to festivals that engage B.C. and Canadian artists.

Application deadline is Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016. (As Jan. 30, 2016, falls on a weekend, applications must be postmarked no later than Monday, Feb. 1, 2016.)

For more information and eligibility criteria, visit: www.bcartscouncil.ca

The BC Arts Council is the Government of British Columbia's lead agency for arts funding and development. All BC Arts Council grants are awarded through a peer assessment process that relies on the knowledge and expertise of the province's talented arts and culture community.

In 2015-16, the Province is investing about $60 million in British Columbia's artists, arts organizations and cultural institutions. This includes $24 million to the BC Arts Council -- the highest level of funding in the council's history.