Arts organizations have long relied on a familiar mix of grants, fundraising, and earned revenue. But as financial pressures grow and traditional funding models are stretched, what other possibilities might be available, and how can organizations explore them responsibly?

This panel discussion invites board members, arts leaders, and sector partners to think differently about how money can flow through our organizations. Through practical examples from collaboration and co-production to bridge financing, social finance and other approaches to revenue diversification, we hope to explore what it means for an organization to become ready to consider new financial models.

At the centre of the conversation is governance: How should boards assess financial risk and opportunity? When should they become involved? What questions need to be asked before taking on repayable capital or pursuing an unfamiliar revenue strategy? And how do we build greater comfort with risk without compromising organizational sustainability?

Together, panelists will unpack both the possibilities and the challenges of moving beyond a predominantly grant-dependent mindset while considering the relationships, infrastructure, and shared decision-making needed to build more resilient arts organizations.

Space is limited, please register by clicking here.

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4:00pm – Textile Museum will be open for visitors

5:30pm – Doors Open and Registration

5:45pm – Welcome + Opening Remarks by Michelle Yeung, Lead, Creative Champions Network

5:55pm – Panel Discussion facilitate by Michael Herrera , with speakers, Christina Loewen, David Maggs, and Nick Eddy

6:35pm – Q&A

6:50pm – Closing remarks

6:55pm – Networking

7:30pm – End of Event

Food and beverages will be provided.

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Toronto Arts Foundation is committed to providing as accessible an environment as possible. If you require any accessibility services to participate in this event, please reach out to Jeff at jeff@torontoarts.org by October 5, 2026.