Meet the Expert: In Securing Arts Funding - BAO

Date and Time
Thu, Jan 22, 2026 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST

Location
Online (Zoom)

This free virtual workshop is part of the Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) and Work in Culture (WIC)’s Mentorship Program for Brampton Artist Entrepreneurs, Creative Businesses, and Arts, Culture & Heritage Organizations.

This “Meet the Expert” session will help arts organizations, artists and creative entrepreneurs streamline their efforts in securing funding to support their projects.

In this two-hour online workshop, grant expert Vanessa Burns will discuss the topic of Securing Arts Funding.

What can you expect to learn from this session?

  • Expand knowledge of funding opportunities for arts-based organizations and artists
  • Build skills in crafting compelling grant applications and proposals.
  • Develop strategies for long-term financial sustainability and funder relationships.

This workshop will give you the tools to build momentum, expand your reach, and sustain your creative practice or arts organization.

Register now to elevate your skills in securing funding and grow your creative career.

DONATE – Your donation helps us support Brampton artists and expand free programming like this.

Accessibility: If you are a Brampton resident who needs assistance or support to participate, such as an ASL interpreter, please get in touch with us at info@bramptonartsorg.ca as soon as possible (minimum of five days in advance) so that we can make the necessary accommodations.

Workshop Presenter

Photograph of Vanessa Burns, a white woman with green eyes and a short red bob. She is wearing a black blouse.

With over 25 years of experience spanning the social impact and for-profit sectors, Vanessa Burns brings expertise in fundraising, communications, marketing, and B2B sales to the world of grant funding. As a proud member of the Grant Professionals Association, Vanessa is dedicated to simplifying the grant process through education, mentorship, and research. She also offers a “One Stop Grant Shop” for organizations seeking funding success.

Outside of grant consulting, Vanessa is an avid rock and ice climber and spinning enthusiast. Inspired by Marie Forleo’s motto, “Everything is Figureoutable,” Vanessa helps organizations overcome barriers and scale new heights—no ropes required!

Arts and culture are the heart of our communities and boost the local economy. Supporting the arts is more than just nice—it drives business, fosters creativity, and brings people together. Advocacy ensures the arts stay vibrant, leading to increased funding, better policies, and more opportunities for artists, cultural organizations, and creative businesses in Brampton.