Government significantly increasing annual funding to protect two of the province’s most important cultural icons
The Ontario government is protecting Canadian culture and identity by investing an additional $21 million per year in operating funding support for the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). Announced as part of the 2026 Ontario Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario, this new funding will ensure these two cultural icons continue to deliver world-class exhibitions, programming and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
“AGO and ROM are world-class institutions that attract visitors from home and abroad with their innovative programming,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our government is proud to invest in their long-term success. By providing critical funding to these national treasures, we are protecting our invaluable tourism and cultural sectors and ensuring they remain must-visit world-class attractions for years to come.”
Among the world’s premier art galleries and museums, the AGO and ROM collectively welcome nearly 1.8 million visitors from across Canada and the world every year. This new annual investment marks the first permanent increase in provincial operating funding for these institutions in nearly 20 years. It brings total government operating support to nearly $70 million annually, helping to ensure both cultural institutions have the stability needed to offer more world-class programming and bring more unique travelling exhibitions to the people of Ontario.
“The AGO is proud to welcome the world to experience great art. Our extraordinary collections, exhibitions and programs reflect the people who live here, and our strength as Ontarians,” said Stephan Jost, Michael and Sonja Koerner Director, and CEO of the Art Gallery of Ontario. “The AGO community is over 237,000 members and Annual Pass holders strong. This foundational funding from the Ontario government strengthens our collection, supports our team of professionals and ensures that our programs are accessible. Thank you, Ontario, for believing in the power of art and culture.”
This new funding builds on other recent government actions to support Canadian heritage and culture, including investing $50 million over three years to update and expand the McMichael Canadian Art Collection facility and grounds in Kleinburg.
“We are profoundly grateful to Premier Ford, Minister Bethlenfalvy and Minister Cho for their support of ROM and its mission,” said Yoke Chung, ROM Interim Co-Director and CEO. “With this additional funding, ROM can continue to showcase its world-class collections and deliver exceptional visitor experiences, affirming the Museum as a dynamic hub of learning for all Ontarians.”
The 2026 Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario outlines how the government is advancing its plan to protect Ontario by making the province one of the most competitive places to invest and do business in the G7, while building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
