Minister Duguid announces federal investments to grow the performing arts sector in Alberta
PrairiesCan funding of more than $8.3 million will support the sustainability and vibrancy of performing arts organizations in Edmonton and Calgary
EDMONTON, AB, March 7, 2025 /CNW/ - Performing arts organizations across the Prairies collectively possess the economic and cultural power to enrich communities, draw visitors and tourists, generate jobs, and drive economic activity. The Government of Canada is investing in the continued sustainability and vibrancy of the performing arts in Prairie communities.
Today, the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of over $8.3 million to enable 13 performing arts organizations in Alberta to grow, diversify their revenues, and engage audiences in new and exciting ways.
From the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton to the Calgary Philharmonic Society, today's investments will enable some of Alberta's leading performing arts organizations to implement new audience development and engagement strategies, enhance their reach and visitor experience, and increase awareness of their brand.
In total, today's investments are expected to support over 75 jobs and will strengthen the long-term economic resiliency of arts organizations by helping them to innovate and enhance their offerings.
This announcement reflects the principles of the Government of Canada's Framework to Build a Green Prairie Economy, a long-term commitment to work collaboratively with partners across the Prairies on their priorities to seize new possibilities for good-paying jobs in a globally competitive economy.
Quotes
"The performing arts are at the heart of Alberta's cultural landscape. More than just a source of entertainment, they bring people together, spark creativity, and drive economic growth while creating good jobs along the way. Our government is proud to invest in Alberta's performing arts organizations, helping them grow, innovate, and inspire audiences."–The Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister for PrairiesCan
"Performing arts organizations across the country drive the local economy. I'm happy to see this kind of funding reaching our region, ensuring arts organizations here receive the same support as those across the country. This announcement recognizes the economic impact of arts organizations in our communities—and that's good business for everyone."–The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre
Quick facts
The Prairie Performing Arts Initiative (PPAI) is part of Canada's Budget 2024 commitment to create vibrant and inclusive communities. PPAI provides $20 million in one-time support over three years (2024/25 to 2026/27).
This initiative provides non-repayable contributions directly to eligible professional performing arts organizations to support projects that contribute to the financial sustainability and growth of the performing arts sector across the Prairies.
Budget 2024 also provided $31 million over two years to the Canadian Arts Presentation Fund delivered by Canadian Heritage to support organizations that present arts.
Backgrounder
PrairiesCan is investing $8,356,420 in non-repayable funding for 13 projects in Alberta through the Prairie Performing Arts Initiative (PPAI).
Through PPAI, PrairiesCan investments support local performing arts organizations as they re-engage and attract audiences and diversify their revenue. Funding will support the long-term economic resiliency of arts organizations by helping them innovate their current practices and enhance their offerings.
Edmonton
Ballet Edmonton Society ($587,831)Create a digital portfolio to enhance visual storytelling and attract new audiences.
The Citadel Theatre ($750,000)Implement a multifaceted business strategy to grow audience base, diversify revenue streams, and enhance theatre experiences.
Edmonton Opera Association ($682,550)Improve sustainability and audience growth using innovative digital tools and branding strategies.
Edmonton Symphony Society ($750,000)Diversify revenue streams, engage new audiences, and enhance business operations through digital content, research, and development.
Theatre Network Society ($170,000)Build a comprehensive rental space and program to diversify revenue.
Calgary
Alberta Ballet Company ($750,000)Implement a marketing strategy to increase visibility and audience engagement within Alberta's vibrant ballet scene.
The Alberta Theatre Projects Society ($750,000)Create and implement fundraising and marketing strategies to re-engage patrons and attract new audiences.
Calgary Opera Association ($750,000)Implement marketing and audience development strategies to increase revenue and diversify audiences.
Calgary Philharmonic Society ($750,000)Implement a new audience development strategy to increase revenue and audience growth to enhance the orchestra's reach.
Decidedly Jazz Society ($484,853)Develop and implement a digital marketing strategy to attract new audiences and improve operations.
One Yellow Rabbit Theatre Association ($539,000)Develop a fund development and marketing plan to increase revenue and audience base.
Theatre Calgary ($750,000)Enhance business development practices, execute marketing campaigns, and implement engagement tools to grow audience base.
Vertigo Theatre Society ($642,186)Establish a fund development department in support of its revenue diversification efforts.
Associated links
Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)
Prairies Performing Arts Initiative (PPAI)
Stay connectedFollow PrairiesCan on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedInToll-Free Number: 1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388
SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada
View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/March2025/07/c5163.html
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
8 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Lucid Prepares Next Wave Of EVs As Trademarks Signal Product Expansion
Several new trademarks have revealed the possible names for Lucid's next models, as the company looks to expand its lineup beyond the full-size Air sedan and Gravity three-row SUV. Considering Lucid already occupies these segments, these future models should hopefully be more affordable, giving the brand higher-volume alternatives to the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y. The brand has, after all, already teased a midsize SUV and confirmed a Model Y competitor. Here's a look at all the latest Lucid trademarks. The Lucid Earth trademark already popped up a few weeks ago, and it has since been confirmed that this will be a new smaller EV. It's set to go into production in 2026, when it should compete head-on with the Tesla Model Y. The newest trademark is for an Earth Dream Edition, filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office, adding further confirmation that this is a new Lucid production model. The brand's Dream Edition EVs are typically sold for a limited time after a new car is launched. They offer the best outputs and features, and also carry the highest prices. A price of under $50,000 and a class-leading range are expected for this model, but the Dream Edition could cost more than this. Another trademark, this time filed with the Government of Canada, is for the Lucid Ocean. If that name sounds familiar, you may be thinking of the Fisker Ocean SUV. However, Fisker's recent bankruptcy presumably means that the "Ocean" name is back up for grabs, and since it fits in thematically with other Lucid model names, it's a logical choice. It's not known what vehicle the Ocean name could apply to, but a smaller sedan to slot in below the Air sounds like a logical move. It would give the brand a true BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE rival, leaving the Air to do battle with the i7 and EQS. The last time "Lucid Space" was mentioned, it was by former Lucid CEO, Peter Rawlinson. However, he was specifically referring to the Lucid Space Concept, which doesn't refer to a particular model, but references one of the brand's philosophies. Rawlinson was explaining how Lucid cars free up an amount of interior space beyond the physical footprint of a given vehicle. Once again, though, "Space" fits in well with other Lucid names like Gravity and Air, referencing the elements and/or the natural environment. Last year, Lucid ruled out a station wagon, but was open to the idea of a more rugged vehicle. Given the brand's luxury focus, a classy coupe doesn't seem out of the question, but electric coupes are exceedingly rare. The word "Space" sounds applicable to something larger, but the Air and Gravity are already full-size models, so it's anyone's guess what this model could be. While Lucid has not yet come close to toppling Tesla, it's doing what a lot of other EV startups couldn't: surviving. And, with only two high-end models on sale presently, the potential for growth is enormous if the brand launches two or more models that are more accessible. The Earth is the only one that looks like a guarantee, but we can't wait to see the possibilities of the Ocean and Space nameplates. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Minister Lightbound visits Chantier Davie as part of the shipyard's 200th anniversary celebration
LÉVIS, QC, June 7, 2025 /CNW/ - Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), the Government of Canada is committed to strengthening its sovereign shipbuilding capabilities in an increasingly complex global environment. Building vessels domestically creates strong supply chains that help safeguard Canadian naval capabilities and ensure that the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) and Transport Canada (TC) are equipped to conduct operations at home and alongside allies. Today, the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, visited Chantier Davie Canada Inc. (CDCI) to celebrate the shipyard's 200th anniversary. He also took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of prioritizing Canadian supply chains and highlighted the role of the NSS in supporting domestic industry and innovation. As one of the 3 strategic partner shipyards under the NSS, CDCI plays a critical role in strengthening the country's maritime capabilities. The shipyard was recently awarded a major contract to build a polar icebreaker for the CCG. In addition, design work is currently underway at CDCI for 6 program icebreakers, which are essential for maintaining year-round access to Canada's Arctic and supporting northern communities. Beyond new ship construction, CDCI is a key contributor to the third pillar of the NSS: vessel repair, refit and maintenance. The shipyard is actively engaged in vessel life extension projects, refit and conversion work and sustainment operations across a wide range of fleet assets. These efforts ensure that Canada's maritime fleet remains resilient, mission-ready and capable of operating both domestically and alongside international allies. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the NSS. Since its inception, the strategy has revitalized Canada's marine industry, fostered innovation and created a skilled workforce. NSS contracts awarded between 2012 and the end of 2024 contributed close to $38.7 billion to Canada's gross domestic product and created or maintained approximately 21,400 jobs annually from 2012 to 2025. Looking ahead, the Government of Canada remains committed to advancing shipbuilding projects that equip the RCN, the CCG and TC with modern, capable vessels. The NSS will continue to evolve by incorporating lessons learned and working closely with industry partners to deliver long-term value for Canadians. Quotes "We are committed to building a resilient and sovereign marine industry. Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we are not only delivering world-class vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Navy, we are also strengthening our economy, creating good jobs, including in the Québec-Chaudière-Appalaches region, and ensuring that Canadian innovation and expertise remain at the heart of our maritime future." The Honourable Joël LightboundMinister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement "With 200 years of expertise behind them, Chantier Davie's ongoing participation in the National Shipbuilding Strategy is vital to ensuring the Canadian Coast Guard has the vessels it needs to protect our waters and serve Canadians today and in the future. Canada's oceans are central to our economy, our sovereignty and the wellbeing of strong coastal and northern communities and economies." The Honourable Joanne ThompsonMinister of Fisheries "Happy 200th anniversary to Davie shipyard! Two centuries of jobs, innovation and maritime leadership have helped build Canada into the country it is today. And I know that together with Davie, through its role in the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we will build an even stronger economy and better future for people in Lévis and Canada." The Honourable Mélanie JolyMinister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions "We are honoured to welcome the Honourable Joël Lightbound as we celebrate Davie's 200th anniversary. His presence reaffirms the trust our partners in the Canadian government have placed in Davie and their strong support for Canadian supply chains. Since even before Canada became a nation, Davie people have been strengthening our maritime sovereignty from the banks of the St Lawrence. After two centuries of delivering icebreakers to defend our Arctic interests or maintaining Canada's national fleet, we're ready to write two more. " James DaviesPresident and Chief Executive Officer, Davie Quick facts Shipyards and companies in Quebec are playing an important role in supporting the federal government's shipbuilding needs. Contracts issued under the NSS to Quebec-based companies are worth approximately $7.7 billion, which represents approximately 15% of the total value of NSS-issued contracts. In addition to contracts issued directly by the Government of Canada, Quebec-based companies have received close to $602.6 million in contracts from NSS shipyards to support their respective efforts. These contracts continue to provide meaningful, long-term opportunities for skilled workers across the province of Quebec. CDCI has played a critical role in supporting Canada's fleets, receiving over $7.25 billion in contracts from 2012 to April 2025 for various types of work on ships for the CCG, the RCN and TC. As part of its fleet renewal plan, the CCG is acquiring 2 polar icebreakers through the NSS. To deliver these vessels by the early 2030s, construction work is being done by 2 shipyards: Seaspan's Vancouver Shipyards and CDCI. This will ensure that the CCG's operations continue in Arctic waters for longer periods, while allowing its fleet to better support Indigenous Peoples, strengthen Arctic security, advance high Arctic science and better respond to maritime emergencies. On November 13, 2024, Canada signed the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact) with the United States and Finland to deepen existing cooperation, strengthen their shipbuilding industries and allow new equipment and capabilities to be produced more quickly. These 3 key Arctic countries will work more closely together to engage allies and partners to help meet future global demand for Arctic and polar vessels. CDCI is also moving forward with an infrastructure modernization project that will help the shipyard better meet NSS requirements and respond to the ICE Pact opportunity. Associated links National Shipbuilding Strategy Repair, refit and maintenance projects Polar icebreaker projects Program icebreakers Industrial and technological benefits Canada signs new partnership agreement with United States and Finland to produce Arctic and polar icebreakers Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada's Defence Follow us on X (Twitter)Follow us on Facebook SOURCE Public Services and Procurement Canada View original content: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Dene and Métis people of Tulita District the focus of a new $16.5M Office and Cultural Centre for Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve
TULITA, NT, June 6, 2025 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to creating economic opportunities and benefits for Indigenous communities and protecting naturally and culturally treasured places in Canada, including through the advancement of infrastructure projects and impact and benefit plans. Today, the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, on behalf of the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced a $16.5 million investment under Parks Canada's National Park Establishment program to advance construction of a new office and cultural centre for the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve in Northwest Territories. Construction of this landmark building fulfills a commitment in the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve Impact and Benefit Plan, will include a cultural centre exhibition, and will serve as Parks Canada's primary operations base for the park reserve. The ground-breaking event coincided with Tulita community's annual "Fire Day," which commemorates the devastating 1995 wildfire, also celebrated community collaboration, cultural leadership, and shared stewardship. Indigenous and community members from Tulita and Norman Wells gathered to speak of the cultural and regional significance of this long-anticipated milestone. The office and cultural centre will be a place for connection and cultural discovery, provide a space for community members to gather, facilitate meaningful visitor experiences, welcome Mackenzie River paddlers, and to share the rich history of the Sahtu Dene and Métis. The building will also house Parks Canada's operational facility, where local staff will work to protect, present and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve. Investments in infrastructure, like the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve office and culture centre project, benefit the community of Tulita by growing local economic development, boosting the tourism sector, and driving job creation. Infrastructure improvements in the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve will deliver high-quality and meaningful experiences are for visitors and community members alike to connect with and discover the natural and cultural heritage of the Sahtu region and underscores the federal government's commitment to northern communities and Indigenous partners. Quotes "Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve is a majestic keystone in the Canada-wide network of protected areas. The government is committed to working in collaboration with Indigenous peoples and local communities to safeguard the rich cultural and natural heritage of this special place. Today marks a major milestone, with the construction of the office and cultural centre now underway. This vibrant, modern space will not only unlock economic opportunities in the region and deliver benefits to Indigenous businesses, it also reflects our shared commitment to protecting the environment. This project is an exciting example of how conservation, economic development, and sustainable design can blend together, and I salute all those who have worked to bring this vision to life." The Honourable Steven GuilbeaultMinister responsible for Parks Canada, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages "The government is committed to supporting northern communities across Canada, including the Sahtu Region. Today's groundbreaking is an important next step for the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve. The project will serve as a permanent space for community members to gather and provide a landmark destination to welcome visitors exploring this incredible region. This space will also enhance Parks Canada's operational capacity to protect and present the natural and cultural heritage of this special place with the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve Management Committee." The Honourable Rebecca AltyMinister of Crown-Indigenous Relations "This is good for the people. Parks Canada has listened to the Elders and the community about what is important. It took time, but this new building shows how we can work together. This is a good day for our community." Douglas Yallee Mayor of the Hamlet of Tulita Quick Facts Located in the southwestern portion of the Sahtu Settlement, Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve is in the traditional lands of the Shúhtaot'ine (Mountain Dene). Many dedicated people from the Sahtu Dene and Métis of the Tulita District, as well as from the federal and territorial governments, helped create the Park, which was formally established under the Canada National Parks Act in December 2014. Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve is co-operatively managed by the Sahtu Dene and Métis of the Tulita District and Parks Canada through the Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve Management Committee. The management committee consists of representatives from Fort Norman Métis Community, Tulita Land Corporation, Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got'įnę Government Incorporated, Parks Canada, and the Government of Northwest Territories. Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve protects the land around Mount Nááts'įhch'oh. Together with Nahanni National Park Reserve, the Parks protect 86% of the Tehjeh Deé (South Nahanni River) watershed. The Park is an important habitat for grizzly bear, Dall's sheep, mountain goats, woodland caribou, and trumpeter swans. It is a place where wildlife can thrive, and traditional harvesting can continue for future generations. The construction contract has been formally awarded to Northern Industrial Construction, based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, following a competitive solicitation process. The construction and management of the building will provide economic opportunities and benefits to Indigenous communities. The building design meets energy efficiency standards of the Government's Greening Government Strategy for low carbon emissions and is predicted to deliver an 89% reduction of operational greenhouse gas emissions, as compared to minimum code requirements, over its 40-year life cycle. Parks Canada expects the administrative office space to open in fall 2026 with the cultural centre exhibition expected to be completed by spring 2027. Related Links Parks Canada website Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve website SOURCE Parks Canada (HQ) View original content to download multimedia: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
