The Hnatyshyn Foundation is seeking nominations for the inaugural Gerda Hnatyshyn Launch Grants! The Grants, of $10,000 each, provide assistance to the most promising Canadian performing artists in the years immediately following their education or training. One grant is available in each of the following disciplines:

- Classical Music (performance or composition)

- Contemporary Music (performance or composition)

- Contemporary Dance (performance or choreography)

- English Theatre (all projects, including writing, directing, performing)

- French Theatre (as above)

The Launch Grants provide support in the years immediately following an artist's education or training, when they are most vulnerable to the barriers and challenges involved with building and sustaining an artistic career. To be eligible, candidates must either be within 3 years of their date of graduation of a postsecondary program in their discipline; about to graduate (before June 30 of this year); or, for Contemporary Music only, have equivalent training outside of an academic context.

Process:

Candidates must be nominated by a recognized professional in their performing arts discipline. They will be required to submit a project proposal to be considered. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, the production of an album, performance, concert, tour, professional recording, play, or other similar projects. If candidates are unsure or their project's eligibility, they are encouraged to contact the Foundation. A jury appointed by the Foundation will adjudicate the performance work and proposals of the nominees.

Nomination deadline: March 31st, 2025

Submission of candidate materials: April 28th, 2025

Announcement of laureates: successful candidates will be notified in summer 2025.

Before submitting a nomination, please review the program’s guidelines in full.