Inspirit Foundation Announces Fund for Canadian Muslim Artists 

Media Release – Download the PDF version

TORONTO, February 27, 2025 — Inspirit Foundation is proud to launch the New Narratives Fund, a fund that amplifies the work of Canadian Muslim artists in pop culture. It is one of the only funds of its kind in North America and the first in Canada. 

The New Narratives Fund supports the marketing, distribution, audience development, and presentation of ambitious, impactful and uniquely creative works by Canadian Muslim artists and content creators. 

“Through our work at Inspirit, we have seen first-hand the vibrancy and diversity of Muslim artists in Canada and the powerful stories they tell,” said Chris Lee, Director of Programming, Inspirit Foundation. “The arts have a unique and influential role to play in addressing Islamophobia in Canada. The New Narratives Fund will support Muslim-led stories that bring greater narrative nuance, complexity, and authenticity, going beyond the one-dimensional and Islamophobic portrayals we all too often encounter.” 

Eligible projects include digital and screen-based projects, as well as performance-based and multi-disciplinary initiatives. Projects must be ready to launch in 2025 and have the potential to create a substantial impact within their communities and beyond.  

The New Narratives Fund has been developed with the guidance of an advisory committee of Muslim creatives with deep expertise in arts, culture and media.  

Advisory committee members are Aizzah Fatima, Cadar Mohamud, Sikandar Atiq, Timaj Garad, and Zainub Verjee. Their bios can be found on the New Narratives Fund web page. 

“Authentic storytelling has the power to reshape perceptions and build true understanding,” said advisory committee member Sikandar Atiq. “Through my years as Co-Chair of The Mosquers, I’ve seen firsthand how Muslim-led narratives can inspire empathy when given the right platform and reach. The New Narratives Fund is a vital step in ensuring that powerful stories not only get told but also reach the audiences they deserve. And by supporting post-production marketing and distribution, we’re uplifting artists in ways that are too often overlooked.” 

Applications for the New Narratives Fund are open until April 10, 2025. Visit the Inspirit website for more information and to apply. 

Inspirit Foundation advances racial, social and economic justice by investing our assets and funding media and arts for change. To learn more, visit inspiritfoundation.org and follow Inspirit on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Jozef Agtarap 
Communications and Outreach Manager, Inspirit Foundation 
jagtarap@inspiritfoundation.org 
416-644-3600 ext. 7