New $15,000 investment will support jobs and amplify the local music sector
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
1. Ontario is investing in 22 arts organizations and nine individual artists through the Music Production and Presentation Projects program.
2. 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.
3. 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.
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
