Prince George, B.C. – Northern Development has launched a new arts funding initiative.

The Fabulous Festivals and Events program will provide non-profit organizations with up to $2,500 in grant fund annually to help expand the region’s many unique music, arts and athletic events.

“We’re super excited about this one,” says communications director Joel McKay. “It’s the first time that we’ve taken a look at arts and culture in northern, B.C. and we’re taking an economic development sort of spin on it.”

He says they created the program because their research has shown festivals like Coldsnap and Quesnel’s Skyfest “attract a ton of people to our region.”

“Those people are staying in hotels, they’re shopping, they’re eating at restaurants and that’s supporting the local economy.”

McKay says between $250,000 and $500,000 will be invested annually in festivals and events throughout northern B.C. next year but says the time to start applying is now.

“We’re accepting applications so if you’re a festival or event out there and you’re coming up to budget time and you’re a little bit worried about where you’re going to access some of your funds, give us a call.”

That number is 250-561-2525. You can also apply online by clicking here.