Art by Amir Akbari & youth, in partnership with the East Scarborough Boys & Girls Club | 4205 Lawrence Ave E | Photo by Ian Pereira
The Call for Applications for the Partnership Program will open in April 2023.
Please note that new changes are being implemented for the StART Partnership Program in 2023. Based on feedback and guidance from former applicants, artists and project partners, we are moving toward a two-stage application process that will span over two years. This will create more time and space for public consultation/community engagement prior to mural production as well as securing property owner permissions and permits required for installations. Recommended projects will be announced in early Fall 2023 to allow for community work to get conducted over the winter months with a mural production schedule to align for Spring/Summer 2024. City of Toronto owned infrastructure will not be eligible for the Partnership Program, e.g. sound walls, retaining wall, etc. These surfaces and structures will be managed through StART’s suite of application based programs.
Please stay tuned for the new application timeline roll out announced in early 2023 where we will also be hosting a series of information sessions.
The StART Partnership Program provides support and up to $60,000 in funding for large-scale projects that support the program’s mission to revitalize and engage communities through mural, street, and graffiti art. StART values projects that are aligned with broader neighbourhood revitalization efforts and target areas of graffiti vandalism and is interested in partnering on projects that:
are innovative in terms of design, delivery, and message
are valuable to the community, reflect neighbourhood identities, and are site-specific in design
demonstrate a strong community engagement component
foster expanded partnerships within the arts community
provide mentorship or training opportunities for youth or emerging artists
StART Partnership Program Objectives
Enhance Toronto’s streets and public spaces
Engage and vitalize Toronto communities through physical enhancements and related events
Showcase local artists and mentor emerging talent
Counteract graffiti vandalism
Celebrate the City of Toronto Motto Diversity Our Strength, and foster a greater sense of belonging among all
Eligibility Requirements
Individual artists, artist collectives, cultural producers and not-for-profit or charitable organization operating in the City of Toronto may apply
All projects and related activities must be located in Toronto
Written authorization from property owner is required at the time of application
Evaluation & Timelines
Proposals will be reviewed by a Selection Committee including external art jurors and StART subject matter experts, and assessed on the following criteria:
Achieves StART’s overall objectives and priorities including strong local support and evidence of connecting with a neighbourhood’s improvement strategy
Ability to illustrate how the project reflects, chronicles, or supports the distinct character of the community and overall artistic quality
Organizational background (history of community work and experience with street art projects)
Mentorship (how will the project serve as a meaningful pathway for youth and emerging artists)
Ability to leverage in kind, private or public support
Technical Feasibility (visibility of site, strong maintenance plan, project co-ordination, and work plan)
To apply to the StART Partnership Program, please download, read and complete the following application requirements:
