Call for Nominations: Developing Artist Grants & Gerda Hnatyshyn Launch Grants
January 21, 2026
The Hnatyshyn Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Developing Artist Grants and Gerda Hnatyshyn Launch Grants.
Deadline to nominate (both programs): March 11, 2026
About the Programs
Developing Artist Grants
The Developing Artist Grants support the studies of Canadian performing artists enrolled in post-secondary educational or training institutions.
Two grants are awarded annually in each of the following disciplines (one Developing Artist Grant of $12,500 and one Finalist’s Grant of $4,000):
Classical Music (orchestral instrument - strings)
Classical Music (orchestral instrument - winds, brass, percussion)
Classical Music (piano)
Classical Vocal Performance
Contemporary Dance
Jazz Performance (The Oscar Peterson Award for Jazz Performance)
Acting (English theatre)
Acting (French theatre)
For all disciplines except Classical Vocal Performance, grants are intended to support students at a Canadian institution, entering the final or penultimate year of an undergraduate program. The grant for Classical Vocal Performance is intended for graduate students entering the first or second year of a graduate program, or studying full-time with a recognized teacher, anywhere in the world.
Nomination procedure
Students cannot apply for these awards. Instructors at Canadian universities and performing arts colleges (or instructors anywhere in the world, for Classical Vocal Performance) are invited to submit a nomination.
Each institution may nominate up to two candidates, with the exception of Classical Vocal Performance (one nominee). We ask that nominators consult with other professors in their department, or coordinate with the department Chair, to ensure the limit per institution is respected.
Please review the updated guidelines for 2026, linked below, prior to submitting a nomination.
The Gerda Hnatyshyn Launch Grants
The Gerda Hnatyshyn Launch Grants provide project support to Canadian performing artists who recently completed studies, or have equivalent experience, in theatre, classical music, contemporary music, or dance.
One grant of $10,000 is awarded annually in each of the following disciplines:
Classical Music
Contemporary Music
English Theatre
French Theatre
Contemporary Dance
The Launch Grants are intended to support an original creative project, for which candidates must submit a proposal.
Nomination Procedure
Candidates cannot apply for these awards. Professionals working in the candidates’ performing arts discipline may nominate one candidate a year for a Launch Grant.
Please review the updated guidelines for 2026, linked below, prior to submitting a nomination.
We look forward to receiving and reviewing this year’s applications.
Please direct any questions about these programs to:
Marianne Brown, Executive Director
