More British Columbia artists will have an opportunity to showcase their talents around the globe as a result of increased funding by the International Presence Program, Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, announced this morning.

The Province is increasing its investment in the program by $100,000 to $350,000.

“We want to share B.C.’s amazing artistic talent with the world and attract top industry executives to our province,” said Beare. “The International Presence Program gives us that opportunity, enabling B.C. artists to step onto the world stage and make important connections with industry representatives who can help them succeed.”

Program grants are intended to heighten the global understanding and appreciation of British Columbia’s arts, culture, creativity and innovation. B.C. artists are provided with funding to support developing relationships between B.C.’s arts and culture sector and its international counterparts.

International Presence Program funding is awarded via three main streams: 

• Arts promotion, representation and exposure: Projects that expose B.C. artists to new markets and relationship-building opportunities, or improve promotional capacity.
• Incoming presenters and curators: Projects that bring international presenters and curators to the province to increase their exposure to B.C. artists.
• Artistic and cultural exchange: Projects that are based in reciprocal, long-term relationships and result in cultural and artistic exchange, or unique collaborative or strategic opportunities.

Funds for the B.C. government’s International Presence Program are administered through the Arts Legacy Fund. This funding aligns with provincial trade and tourism goals, supports growth in the creative economy and enhances international exposure and network-building opportunities for B.C. artists and arts organizations.

In the 2016-17 International Presence Program pilot, these grants:

• supported international exposure for over 70 B.C. artists and arts organizations;
• brought over 60 international curators and presenters to B.C.;
• provided connections with international counterparts from over 20 countries; and
• sent B.C. representatives to 15 international industry trade shows.

Quick Facts:

• The Government of B.C. is investing more than $60 million in arts and culture organizations in 2017-18, including about $17.5 million through community gaming grants.
• The International Presence Program provides funding for: 
  • arts promotion, representation and exposure.
  • incoming presenters and curators.
  • artistic and cultural exchange.

Learn More:

For more information about the International Presence Program, and to apply for grants, visit: http://ow.ly/sxdk3083Co5