About the program
Purpose and goals
The Saanich Community Canvas Mural Grant Program supports the creation of community murals that enrich public spaces and bring people together. The new program aims to:
- Enhance neighborhoods and public spaces by adding visually engaging and meaningful artwork.
- Inspire community pride through artistic expression.
- Strengthen social well-being and a sense of belonging.
- Support artists by providing opportunities to create publicly accessible and engaging art.
- Encourage community involvement in their shared environment, fostering connections between residents, artists, organizations, property owners and businesses.
- Reflect and celebrate the diversity, values, and identity of Saanich.
- Encourage applications from organizations and artists that identify as part of an equity-deserving group or underserved community.
By investing in community-driven mural projects, this program contributes to a more vibrant, welcoming, and culturally valued Saanich for residents and visitors alike.
Funding and eligibility
Non-profit organizations, Saanich-based community associations, registered charities, and local First Nations can apply for project funding up to $10,000, or 75% (whichever is less), of total project costs. Applicants are required to contribute a minimum of 25% of total mural project costs through their own funds, donations, or in-kind contributions (including labour, supplies, or other related project costs). Organizations must be in good standing with the District of Saanich.
Artists, businesses, schools and other stakeholders may participate as partners in an application led by an eligible organization.
Other requirements
- Applicants must review the Mural Grant Program Guidelines before applying.
- Mural locations must be highly visible from public space.
- Applicants may propose mural projects on either privately-owned or public properties.
- The legal property owner (private or public) must provide written permission to install and maintain the mural at the property.
- Murals must be maintained for a minimum period agreed upon between parties (including applicant and property owner).
- Applicants must submit a proposed mural vision/description, mural location details and photos, budget, estimated timeline, artist information, mural design/rendering, a maintenance plan, and evidence of community support.
- Successful applicants must sign a Letter of Agreement with the District of Saanich and agree to adhere to the Mural Grant Program Guidelines as a condition to release of funding.
- Successful applicants must obtain appropriate permits and minimum insurance required for installation and maintenance of their project. They are responsible for project management, including meeting all required health and safety requirements.
- Funded mural projects must be completed within 18 (eighteen) months.
- A final summary report must be submitted upon completion.
Application process
Applications are being accepted until March 2, 2026 4:00 p.m. Successful applicants will have up to 18 months to complete their mural projects.
Applications will be reviewed for eligibility and evaluated based on requirements and established criteria. Applicants will be notified regarding their applications. Not all applications that meet eligibility requirements may receive a grant, nor may successful recipients be awarded their full requested amount.
Should grant funding remain after completion of the March 2026 intake, a second intake may open and applications would be reviewed as received.
To apply:
To apply for the program, follow these steps:
- Review the Community Canvas Mural Grant Program Guidelines, the application form, and the required documents.
- Contact the Public Art Coordinator to express your interest and intent to apply for the grant program.
- Download and complete a copy of the PDF Application Form. Save a copy of your form.
- Email your application and your required documents to the Public Art Coordinator.
Find a Required Attachments Checklist, document templates and forms below to help complete your application:
Staff are available to provide assistance and answer questions you may have.
Arbutus Mural Location: 50 Burnside Road West
Artist: Elder
A 2025 Community Canvas Mural Grant-funded project led by the Gorge Tillicum Community Association.
