The Ontario government is investing $15,000 to protect creative jobs
and help empower local artists in Port Hope to produce and present their work. The
funding is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by supporting workers,
businesses, communities and jobs in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty, while
creating a solid foundation for a strong, resilient, and competitive future.
Port Hope Jazz will receive $15,000 through the Ontario Arts Council, an agency of the
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. The announcement was made by David
Piccini, MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South.
“Our government understands the important role that the arts play in fostering dynamic
and thriving communities across Ontario,” said David Piccini, MPP, Northumberland
Peterborough South. “This funding will help Port Hope artists and arts organizations
continue to make a positive impact on our economy, create good jobs and draw more
visitors to our community.”
The Music Production and Presentation Projects program supports the development
and presentation (both live and virtual) of all genres of music by Ontario-based
professional musicians, groups and organizations. Supported activities include
rehearsal and repertoire development, single performances/concerts, concert series,
music festivals, and opera productions. In Port Hope, this funding will support the Port
Hope Jazz Festival in their 25th year.
“Ontario’s professional musicians and music organizations play a vital role in enriching
our lives, enlivening our communities and driving economic growth,” said Stan Cho,
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Protecting and investing in homegrown
musicians who foster pride, influence creativity and strengthen local economies is a key
priority for the government. I am thrilled to support Port Hope Jazz with funding to help
develop, empower and promote talented musicians across the province.”
“Big dreams can be realized when we dream together. On behalf of all the musicians,
audiences and volunteers, thank you to the Ontario Arts Council for their generous
support of the 25th anniversary of the Port Hope Jazz Festival!”
– Colleen Allen, Artistic Director Port Hope Jazz
“The 25th anniversary of Port Hope Jazz is a wonderful milestone that celebrates the
festival’s long-standing contribution to our community—bringing people together,
energizing our downtown, and showcasing incredible musical talent. We are grateful for
the sustained investment in the arts from partners like the Ontario Arts Council, which
helps support a vibrant cultural scene that benefits residents, visitors, and local
businesses alike.”
– Olena Hankivsky, Mayor, Municipality of Port Hope
Quick Facts
• Ontario is investing in 22 arts organizations and nine individual artists through the
Music Production and Presentation Projects program.
• The Ontario Arts Council (OAC), an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture
and Gaming, provides grants to Ontario-based individual artists and arts
professionals, ad hoc groups, collectives and organizations, supporting a range
of arts activities and disciplines.
• In 2024-25, OAC invested $52.2 million in 204 communities across 123 Ontario
ridings, providing 1,969 grants to individual artists and 1,030 grants to
organizations
