Looking Forward — Exploration Grants

Arts and cultural organizations across Manitoba are being asked to rethink how they operate, fund their work, and plan for long-term sustainability. The Looking Forward — Exploration Grants are designed for organizations that know change is needed but want dedicated time and resources to explore the right path forward before making major decisions. This funding stream supports early-stage thinking, research, and planning around complex organizational questions, rather than rushing straight into implementation.

Delivered through a collaboration between the Manitoba Arts Council and The Winnipeg Foundation, the Exploration Grants help Manitoba-based arts and culture organizations examine new revenue ideas, alternative business or governance models, strategic partnerships, or broader structural changes. Funding of up to around $15,000 can be used to support activities like facilitated planning sessions, research, consulting support, or other exploratory work that helps clarify challenges and test potential solutions. The focus is on thoughtful, informed decision-making that strengthens the organization’s future viability.

This grant is particularly relevant for established nonprofits and cultural groups navigating growth, transition, or sustainability concerns, including early conversations around mergers, shared services, or organizational renewal. With intakes offered on a recurring basis and access to strategic guidance built into the program, Looking Forward — Exploration Grants offer a practical starting point for organizations ready to ask hard questions and plan what comes next. Exploring the full program details can help determine whether this opportunity aligns with your organization’s future goals.