BC Budget Confirms Increased Arts Funding

On Tuesday, February 19, 2013, Finance Minister Michael de Jong presented the British Columbia government's 2013 budget. Highlights of the budget include a modest overall surplus and a plan which emphasizes investment in families.

The arts receive several mentions in the budget document, specifically in the context of expanded programs for children and youth. Some of these programs are part of the BC Creative Futures initiative announced last month. Other mentions include the continuation of the Sports and Arts Legacy funding, which will be used to support the granting programs of BC Arts Council.

As previously announced, the total of $24 Million in granting programs will be the highest ever allocated through the BC Arts Council. The Alliance for Arts and Culture and other provincial arts service organizations have long requested an increase to $32 Million for BC Arts Council grants, which would begin to address significant growth in the sector. We are very glad to see clear steps in the right direction within this budget.

For access to all of the budget details and documents, visit: http://www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2013/default.htm.