Government of Canada invests over $400,000 in La Place des Arts du Grand Sudbury
News release
FedNor funding will help to increase the economic impact of the Francophone arts and culture sector in Northern Ontario
October 16, 2025 – Sudbury, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
Francophone communities are vital to Canada’s identity – especially in our region, our culture and our future in Northen Ontario.
That is why, today, Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, announced a FedNor investment of $410,000 to support the creation of the Institut de professionnalisation artistique et culturelle (IPAC) at Place des Arts du Grand Sudbury. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor.
Integrated into Place des Arts’ operations, the IPAC will offer customized training, mentorship, and creative residencies for Francophone artists, cultural managers, and heritage professionals. Designed in response to regional and national priorities identified by Francophone communities, the Institute will play a vital role in building business skills, expanding market reach, and increasing the economic impact of cultural enterprises. It will also help increase the occupancy and long-term sustainability of Place des Arts’ state-of-the-art facilities.
Over the next three years, the Institute will roll out training modules in cultural management, marketing, and entrepreneurship, in collaboration with partners such as Collège Boréal and Université de l’Ontario français. Activities will include the development of a pilot program, the establishment of strategic partnerships, and the expansion of offerings across the province.
By providing tailored professional development in the cultural sector, the IPAC will enhance collaboration, support job creation, and promote regional tourism – because investing in francophone communities is investing in the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
Quotes
“Investing in cultural infrastructure and creative talent is about more than supporting the arts – it’s about strengthening the heart of our communities. Through FedNor, we’re empowering organizations like La Place des Arts to grow their impact, celebrate Francophone culture, and build opportunities that reflect the diversity of Northern Ontario – for a stronger future, for everyone.”
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for FedNor
“Place des Arts has quickly become a cornerstone of cultural life in Sudbury and a source of pride for Francophone communities across the North. With the creation of the IPAC, it is taking a bold step forward to empower artists, strengthen the creative economy, and drive economic growth through increased tourism and skills development. As a proud Franco-Ontarian, I’m happy that the Government of Canada is supporting this important initiative that will generate lasting benefits for our region..”
- Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury
“The creation of the IPAC marks a major milestone in the evolution of Place des Arts. This new institute will allow us to better support Francophone artists, cultural workers, and organizations by offering high-quality training and collaborative opportunities right here in Northern Ontario. With this investment, we are not only enhancing the vitality of our cultural sector, but also helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of Place des Arts as a hub for innovation, creativity, and economic development.”
- René Lapierre, Président, La Place des Arts du Grand Sudbury
Quick facts
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Through the Economic Development Initiative, FedNor is investing in the development of this new centre of excellence to help strengthen the cultural sector in Northern Ontario, and support the vitality of official language minority communities.
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This project aligns the Government of Canada’s Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario, which identifies investing in building the economic development capacity of municipalities and Indigenous communities in the region as a key action.
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La Place des Arts is a multidisciplinary professional arts centre in downtown Sudbury that serves as a gathering place for Francophones and for the whole community. The 40,000-square-foot facility includes a multi-purpose studio, gift store, theatre, art gallery, bistro and office space. Place des Arts was founded in 2007 by the Regroupement des organismes culturels de Sudbury (ROCS), a coalition bringing together the seven professional Francophone arts organizations from Greater Sudbury that work in the arts, culture, and heritage sector.
Associated links
Contacts
Jennifer Kozelj
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
jennifer.kozelj@labour-travail.gc.ca
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Media Relations