GRANTS & AWARDS
Learn more about DTRC grants and awards.
General Guide
The following is a general guide to DTRC grants and awards. For specific details and application forms, please follow the links.
Members are encouraged to meet with DTRC staff periodically to discuss their career trajectory and eligibility for various DTRC grants and awards. Beginning the conversation early in your DTRC membership will enable you to plan ahead, seize opportunities as they arise, and develop your career with intention.
Confidentiality Policy: DTRC holds members’ personal and professional information in confidence. DTRC employees, contractors and volunteers are not permitted to release any information pertaining to members to anyone without the member’s consent, whether expressed verbally or in writing.
All grants are subject to financial availability.
Grants
*Please use a computer to view the following table. It may not display correctly on mobile.
GRANT |
Skills Grants |
Career Exploration Grants
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Study Grant(formerly Retraining Grant) |
Subsistence: Parallel Pathway(formerly Full-Time Subsistence II, FTS-II) |
Subsistence:
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PURPOSE |
To build transferrable and life skills to facilitate your general employability:
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To test a new career direction or method of study to inform your decision-making:
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To study or train in a new career with support for tuition and related course costs:
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To offset a portion of your basic living expenses while in full-time studies:
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BASIC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA*
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Fully paid member in good standing. |
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AMOUNT*All grants are subject to financial availability. |
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APPLICATION DEADLINE & PROCESS |
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Same as Study Grants. |
Same as Study Grants. |
Special Awards
If a member has completed a full Subsistence Grant: Post-Performance Pathway, they may be eligible to apply for discretionary Special Awards for subsequent years of study.
*Please use a computer to view the following table. It may not display correctly on mobile.
AWARD |
Special Awards |
Founder’s Award |
IOTPD: Philippe Braunshweig Award |
PURPOSE |
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BASIC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA*(*Exemptions may be made if the member must cease their professional dance career for medical reasons, either physical or psychological.) |
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AMOUNT*All grants are subject to financial availability. |
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APPLICATION DEADLINE & PROCESS |
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HOW TO APPLY:
(Please see FAQ below for further explanation.)
- Familiarize yourself with the types of grants available to members.
- Review the eligibility criteria, deadlines and application process.
- For Skills Grants and Career Exploration Grants, you do not need to contact DTRC in advance of applying; however, it is recommended to confirm your eligibility, discuss your plan, and receive stewardship on your application.
- For Study and Subsistence Grants, you must contact the DTRC at least 1 month in advance of the deadline to inform us of your intent to apply, confirm your eligibility, discuss your plan and receive stewardship on your application.
- For Study and Subsistence grants, you will need an access code to open the online application form.
- Read the application thoroughly, noting the support material and documentation required.
- For Study and Subsistence grants, request your Letters of Support early. Be sure to follow the instructions on who to ask and what they should include (see FAQ).
- Update your CV.
- Use the Performance Detail Template provided to list your performance details as required to satisfy the eligibility criteria (see FAQ).
- For Mentorship Format studies, you will need a Letter of Commitment from your mentor and a Workplan to support your program of study. (see FAQ)
- Draft all your answers in an offline document and only upload to the online form once finalized.
- Keep your answers within the word count limits noted.
- For Study and Subsistence Grants, your application must include enough information for the Career Advisor to assess (see FAQ). Please include all information that you feel is pertinent and include a full description of your program and school. If you are studying in a certification program, via mentorship, or individual study plan, instructor biographies are also required.
- For Skills Grants and Career Exploration Grants, complete the relevant financial information in the online form.
- For Study and Subsistence Grants, complete the relevant Budget Templates.
- For Study and Subsistence Grants, you must submit a balanced budget for the entire course/program/period of study (see FAQ).
- For Study and Subsistence Grants, you must provide confirmation of acceptance/enrollment with your application.
- For Subsistence Grants, you must provide confirmation of full-time study for the periods you are requesting subsistence. This can be included in your confirmation of acceptance/enrollment (see FAQ).
- Double-check that your application is complete. Upload all the necessary information and support material with your application. (see FAQ)
- Late and/or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Provided eligibility is maintained, the member may apply again at the next deadline.
FAQ
This FAQ provides guidance and more information about specific aspects of the DTRC grant application process. If you can’t find an answer here, please contact membership@dtrc.ca.
Applicants may find it helpful to open this page in a separate tab on their browser while reviewing and completing their online application form in another tab. Pull the tabs into separate browser windows to view them simultaneously side-by-side.
Use the FIND function on your keyboard or the SEARCH feature in your browser to quickly go to specific FAQ topics, i.e. search for keywords like “budget” or “letters of support”.
What can I use a Skills Grant for?
What can I use a Skills Grant for?
Skills Grants may be used for:
1. Basic life skills (i.e. Driving, First-Aid/CPR, Languages, Digital Literacy).
2. Transferrable skills that enhance general employability (*may not be field-specific).
3. Pre-requisite courses necessary for application or admission to a course/training/study program.
Why do I have to declare my intent to apply for Study and/or Subsistence Grants at least 1 month in advance of the deadline?
Why do I have to declare my intent to apply for Study and/or Subsistence Grants at least 1 month in advance of the deadline?
We require advance notice to forecast demand for funding at each deadline, and to manage our intake process. It also allows us to confirm your eligibility, help you clarify your plans, and steward you through the application process.
In our experience, members who take the time to prepare a thoughtful and complete application are more likely to be successful not only with their grant application but also with their career development and transition.
IMPORTANT: You must contact us at least 1 month in advance to request an access code, which is required to open the online application form.
How do I calculate my minimum performance criteria?
How do I calculate my minimum performance criteria?
Complete the Performance Detail template provided. You may include all time spent – as a performer/interpreter only – in training, rehearsal, creation, and performance.
Performance includes on stage, on set, on site, on video/digital.
How do I know if I’m eligible for an exemption to the grant application criteria?
How do I know if I’m eligible for an exemption to the grant application criteria?
Exemptions may be made if the member must cease their professional dance career for medical reasons, either physical or psychological. Please contact membership@dtrc.ca for more information.
Do I have to study at a university or college to apply for a Study Grant?
Do I have to study at a university or college to apply for a Study Grant?
NO. Studies may take a variety of forms including certification programs, mentorships and individual study plans. Please contact membership@dtrc.ca for more information.
How do you define full-time studies?
How do you define full-time studies?
The DTRC defines full-time studies as a minimum of 30 hours per week for a minimum of one week (5 consecutive days), spent in class, under professional instruction, including time spent on required readings and assignments. Supervised practicums may also be considered. If your place of study defines full–time differently, please contact membership@dtrc.ca well in advance to determine your eligibility to apply for a Subsistence Grant.
Which budget templates do I use?
Which budget templates do I use?
For Study Grants, complete the Study Budget template for the FULL time period of your course of study (i.e. 1-year mentorship, 18-month certification, 2-year diploma, 4-year degree, etc.)
For Subsistence Grants, complete the Subsistence Budget template for the FULL time period, to demonstrate your financial need. Please highlight periods of full-time study to support your monthly request for funds.
If you are applying for both a Study and a Subsistence Grant, you must complete both budgets.
If you are applying for a Subsistence Grant only, you must also complete both budgets.
What expenses are eligible in my Study Budget?
What expenses are eligible in my Study Budget?
The primary purpose of Study Grant funds is to cover tuition/learning expenses. The full grant may be used entirely for the tuition/learning expenses or for a combination of tuition/learning and required study materials*, but not for study materials only. An additional amount, of up to 15% of the requested tuition/learning expenses, may be requested for study materials. The total grant request must not exceed the maximum grant amount available. If tuition/learning expenses are more than the maximum grant available, the applicant may choose to request a lower amount toward tuition/learning expenses and up to a maximum of 15% of that amount for study materials.
*Required study materials for the course are typically stated on the course outline, which may be requested by the DTRC when you submit expenses for reimbursement.
EXAMPLES:
1.
Tuition/learning expenses requested $3750
Additional amount $3750 x 15% = $562.50
Total expenses = $4312.50
Total grant request $4312.50
2.
Tuition/learning expenses requested $5500
Additional amount $5500 x 15% = $825
Total expenses = $6325
Total grant request $6000
3.
Tuition/learning expenses requested = $6000
Additional amount $0
Total expenses = $6000
Total grant request $6000
4. *Only if actual tuition/learning expenses exceed $6000:
Tuition/learning expenses requested = $5217
Additional amount $783
Total expenses = $6000
Total grant request $6000
Eligible Expenses:
- Tuition and mandatory student fees.
- Required materials and supplies* up to 15% of the requested tuition/learning amount (see examples). (*Materials and supplies considered capital expenses are not eligible, i.e. technology, equipment).
- Travel expenses to retraining location, if location is more than 100 km from the applicant’s home.
- Accommodation expenses, if studies occur outside of applicant’s region and require overnight stays.
Ineligible Expenses (please see Subsistence Grants for full-time studies as certain of these expenses are eligible in the Subsistence Budget):
- Student health/dental plans
- Technology/equipment and other capital expenses
- Office supplies/stationary
- Local transportation
- Parking
- Optional student fees
- Per diem/food costs
- Childcare
What expenses are eligible in my Subsistence Budget?
What expenses are eligible in my Subsistence Budget?
Subsistence grants are available to support basic living expenses during periods of full-time study only. Funds may be requested for short-term intensive training (weekly/modular) or longer-term programs. Please complete the Subsistence Budget template to demonstrate your financial need. Please highlight periods of full-time study to support your monthly request for funds. Requests are limited to a maximum amount per month of up to $1500 for Parallel Pathway Grants and up to $2000 for Post-Performance Pathway Grants, up to the maximum grant amount available. For shorter periods of study, amounts will be pro-rated.
Eligible Expenses:
Groceries
Rent/Mortgage
Utilities
Transportation
Clothing
Childcare
Pet care
Health/medical expenses not covered by a care plan
Ineligible Expenses:
Alcohol
Entertainment
Health/medical expenses covered by a care plan
Children’s optional activities
Tax payments
Debt payments
Contributions to savings/investments (RRSPs, TFSAs, etc.)
How do I balance my budget?
How do I balance my budget?
Revenues must be equal to Expenses. Take the Total Revenues, subtract the Total Expenses and the result must equal $0.00.
Why must I present a plan and budget for the FULL study period if I’m only requesting funds for part of it?
Why must I present a plan and budget for the FULL study period if I’m only requesting funds for part of it?
We ask applicants to present a full study plan and budget to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project costs, and to encourage a realistic and achievable approach.
Can I apply for a Study and/or Subsistence Grant if I’ve already begun my studies?
Can I apply for a Study and/or Subsistence Grant if I’ve already begun my studies?
YES. Applicants may apply after they’ve begun their studies; however, grant amounts will be prorated over the remaining study period. DTRC does not fund retroactively.
To ensure there is sufficient time to process applications, deadlines apply to studies beginning three months after the application deadline.
October 1st – for studies beginning in January
February 1st – for studies beginning in May
June 1st – for studies beginning in September
Can I apply for a Subsistence Grant independently from a Study Grant?
Can I apply for a Subsistence Grant independently from a Study Grant?
YES. Subsistence Grant applications may be submitted independently from Study Grant applications. A full application package is required, including a full Study Grant application, Study Budget and Subsistence Budget, even if a Study Grant funds are not being requested.
Exception: A member who has previously applied for a Study Grant and/or a Subsistence Grant: Parallel Pathway and is continuing in the SAME field of study may apply for a Subsistence Grant: Parallel OR Post-Performance by submitting a summary of their retraining plan, an update of their Study Budget, and a full Subsistence Budget. Please contact membership@dtrc.ca for more information.
Can I apply for Study and Subsistence Grants if I don’t have confirmation of acceptance/enrollment?
Can I apply for Study and Subsistence Grants if I don’t have confirmation of acceptance/enrollment?
YES. Confirmation of acceptance/enrollment must be received before an application can be approved. If confirmation of acceptance/enrollment is unavailable at the time of application, an explanation is required. Enrollment must be confirmed before a grant can be awarded.
Can I receive multiple DTRC grants at the same time?
Can I receive multiple DTRC grants at the same time?
YES and NO. Study and Subsistence Grants may be used simultaneously. Otherwise, members may only receive funding from one DTRC grant at a time. Applicants may apply for a future grant while completing a current grant; however, confirmation of completion is required before new funds will be released.
Can I apply for or receive funding retroactively?
Can I apply for or receive funding retroactively?
NO. DTRC does not fund retroactively.
Do I need letters of support?
Do I need letters of support?
YES. Study and Subsistence Grant applications require two letters of support submitted at the time of application. The letters must be from professionals for/with whom you have worked as a professional dancer/interpreter. The professional must address the following in their letter: how long they have known you, in what respect, the appropriateness of your proposed studies and future plan, and whether or not they feel you are capable of following through with your proposal.
What should my mentor include in their Mentorship Letter of Commitment?
What should my mentor include in their Mentorship Letter of Commitment?
Complete the Mentorship Letter of Commitment template provided. The Letter of Commitment from your mentor must clearly state their understanding of and commitment to the Workplan, the time frame for the mentorship and the agreed-upon fee.
*IMPORTANT: For Mentorships that include an experiential learning component (work placement, internship, etc.), the letter must include a statement from the mentor confirming that the applicant’s role would not normally be a paid role, or filled by a paid worker, or financially supported by another funding source.
What should I include in my Mentorship Workplan?
What should I include in my Mentorship Workplan?
Complete the Mentorship Workplan template provided. The workplan should include session dates/length, learning deliverables from each session, self-learning time or practice time, and, for Subsistence Grant requests, the total weekly hours of study.
IMPORTANT: Clearly identify periods of part-time and full-time study.
Can I speak to someone about my application before submitting it?
Can I speak to someone about my application before submitting it?
YES. DTRC staff are available to provide stewardship throughout the application process. Please request stewardship well in advance of the deadline. Requests made less than 2 weeks before the deadline may not be addressed.
How are applications assessed?
How are applications assessed?
Skills and Career Exploration Grant applications are assessed by the Member Services Committee, made up of at least 3 DTRC staff members from different regions.
Study and Subsistence Grant applications are assessed by the Member Services Committee, made up of at least 3 DTRC staff members from different regions. After review by the Committee, applications are also sent to a Career Advisor, who is a professional in the applicant’s proposed field of study.
Special Awards applications are assessed by the Special Awards Committee of the DTRC’s Board of Directors.
What is the Career Advisor’s role in decision-making?
What is the Career Advisor’s role in decision-making?
A Career Advisor is chosen by the DTRC as an expert in the field you wish to pursue and is not associated with the training institution where you wish to study. The Career Advisor provides an external and expert perspective on the application that informs the Committee’s decision-making. Career Advisors do not have a direct voice in the decision. The applicant’s identity is not revealed to the Career Advisor.
In general, Career Advisors are asked to consider the following:
a) Is the study plan clear and appropriate to meet the applicant’s career goals?
b) Is the study plan and training institution or mentorship adequate to prepare the applicant for the chosen career.
When can I expect to hear about my application?
When can I expect to hear about my application?
You will receive automatic confirmation that your application has been received once you submit it online.
For Skills and Career Exploration Grant applications, you will be notified about the results of your application within 4 weeks. Once approved, a grant contract will be provided. You must sign your contract by the “sign by” date.
For Study and Subsistence Grant applications, you will be notified about the results of your application within approximately 8-10 weeks. The DTRC must receive a formal response from your Career Advisor in order to approve your application. Once approved, a grant contract will be provided. You must sign your contract by the “sign by” date.
Can I request feedback about a grant decision?
Can I request feedback about a grant decision?
YES. The Director of Member Services may provide general feedback about grant decisions. If you have further questions, they may be addressed by the Executive Director. In the case of an appeal, the Executive Director will make the final decision. The Executive Director may also request guidance from the Board of Directors.
Can I change my study plan after I receive approval for funding?
Can I change my study plan after I receive approval for funding?
Members seeking to change their approved course of study after they have returned their signed contract must contact the DTRC for review and approval prior to submitting receipts for reimbursement. If the change is substantive, a new application and/or contract may be required.
Do I have to submit receipts to access funds from my grant?
Do I have to submit receipts to access funds from my grant?
YES and NO.
Receipts are required for reimbursement of courses/training expenses related to Skills Grants and Career Exploration Grants.
Receipts are required for reimbursement of tuition/learning expenses and course materials/supplies related to Study Grants.
Receipts are not required for the monthly stipend related to Subsistence Grants.
How do payments and reimbursements work?
How do payments and reimbursements work?
Payments and reimbursements can only be issued after an application has been approved and the signed grant contract has been returned. You may receive your Skills Grant, Career Exploration Grant or Study Grant funding in one of two ways:
- Submit receipts for reimbursement by email attachment to membership@dtrc.ca.
Receipts must be bona fide receipts from the vendor and clearly indicate the following:
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- Name of the vendor
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- Confirmation of amount paid (reimbursements will only be provided for amounts paid in full by the applicant)
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- Amount of reimbursement requested
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- A note summarizing the attached receipts
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- Confirmation of your current mailing address.
- Confirmation of your current mailing address.
2. Have your training institution invoice the DTRC directly to membership@dtrc.ca.
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- If you would like the DTRC to pay your institution directly, they must invoice the DTRC.
- Please note: Certain expenses are not eligible for reimbursement so the DTRC may not pay the invoice in full.
How do subsistence payments work?
How do subsistence payments work?
A subsistence payment schedule must be confirmed with the Director of Member Services at least two weeks in advance of the first payment. You should contact DTRC as soon as you have returned the signed contract. Subsistence is only available during periods of full-time study. Subsistence payments are issued once per month on or before the first of the month, according to the terms outlined in your grant contract and payment schedule. Payment is delivered through the Plooto payment platform and instructions are provided with your grant contract.
Do I have to provide a report on the use of funds at the end of my grant?
Do I have to provide a report on the use of funds at the end of my grant?
YES. For Career Exploration, Study and Subsistence Grants, you are required in your contract to submit an online Report about your studies and next steps on your career path.
Are grants subject to taxes?
Are grants subject to taxes?
YES. Grant money received from the DTRC is taxable income. It is a good idea to budget accordingly. We recommend you consult with an accountant to understand your tax implications and reporting requirements.
We do not issue T4A nor RL-1 slips for grants below $500. Your grant confirmation letter/contract is your documentation for declaring income.
For grants above $500, we will issue an electronic T4A slip in the name of the grant recipient at the end of the calendar year. We therefore require your Social Insurance Number on your grant contract. T4As are issued in February.
