In 2019, after sustained advocacy efforts by the performing arts community, the federal government granted temporary funding increases to the Canada Arts Presentation Fund and the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. These supplementary funds are currently set to end in March 2024. Divesting in these programs is not an option.

That is why we are asking the federal government to invest in the future of live performance.

Make permanent the supplementary investments in the
Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) and the Building Communities
through Arts and Heritage (BCAH) program, first announced
in the 2019 budget and extended in the 2021 budget.

Invest an additional $30 million per year in these two programs
($21 million for CAPF and $9 million for BCAH) to support the
adaptation and growth of the live performance sector in the post-pandemic era.

Live performance associations articulated a strong case for these investments in their pre-budget submissions (see CAPACOA’s recommendations for the 2023 federal budget). Of note, the Canadian Live Music Association is also advocating for an increase to the Canada Music Fund, which complements CAPF and BCAH by supporting touring activities.

Contact your federal MP to let them know how this additional support from the federal government would impact you and your community.

Send them a personal letter using one of the templates below;
Meet them in-person at one of your upcoming events or in their riding office; and,
Explain why additional, ongoing funding is needed and ask for their support.

LETTER TEMPLATES

Event Invitation

Good letter template for both establishing and maintaining a relationship with your MP.
Send at least three weeks before the event.
Be prepared to immediately follow-up with a request for support after the event.

Request for Support

More direct in style: requesting endorsement and support from MP.
Can be sent at any time.