PENTICTON, British Columbia, January 15, 2026
Canada’s cultural ecosystem plays a vital role in our shared identity, economy and national pride. Supporting culture requires fostering professional arts training, ensuring a strong next generation of artists who can thrive locally and internationally.
Today, the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement) and Member of Parliament (Kelowna), announced an investment of $960,000 over three years for the Okanagan Indian Educational Resources Society, commonly known as the En’owkin Centre, a leader in the development and implementation of Indigenous knowledge and systems. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages.
This funding will support professional development for Indigenous artists through the En’owkin Centre’s National Indigenous Professional Artist Training Program. This two-year program provides First Nations, Inuit and Métis artists with interdisciplinary training and mentorship in traditional and contemporary art forms, including storytelling, visual arts, music and performance, to advance their careers and revitalize traditional Indigenous arts.
This investment, delivered through the Canada Arts Training Fund, will support Indigenous artists and cultural leaders in reaching their full potential.