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Deadline: April 13, 2026
Program Summary:
The Hnatyshyn Foundation’s Joysanne Sidimus Ballet Grant, of $10,000, is designed to support an exceptionally talented young dancer by bridging the gap between their full-time training and professional life.
Canadian dancers entering the final or penultimate year of a full-time, multi-year recognized post-secondary educational program, or entering a full-time educational, training, or apprenticeship program of one year or less at a recognized ballet company, are eligible. Both students and apprentices are eligible.
The grants must be applied towards the costs of training, materials (e.g., pointe shoes), travelling to and from auditions, and room and board. In the event that the student chooses not to attend the nominating institution for the period for which they applied or fails to complete the full program of study/apprenticeship, the grant must be returned to The Hnatyshyn Foundation in its entirety or on a pro rata basis.
Nomination Requirements:
This $10,000 grant is intended for Canadian ballet dancers enrolled in full-time studies or apprenticeships at qualified Canadian post-secondary educational and training institutions and professional ballet companies.
The institution must nominate the candidates and may submit up to two candidates per year. Candidates may be nominated in more than one year but may receive the grant only once.
Nominees will be identified by the institution on the basis of exceptional promise for a distinguished career in ballet.
We encourage institutions to consider candidates who express financial need and/or who identify as part of a group that is underrepresented in ballet in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must be:
- Entering, within one year following the nomination deadline, (A) the final or penultimate year of a full-time ballet program at a qualified Canadian post-secondary educational or training institution, (B) a full-time professional training program of one year or less, or C) a full-time apprenticeship with a professional ballet company;
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada (holders of study permits or temporary resident visas are not eligible);
- Nominated by their institution;
- At least 16 years of age at the time of the nomination deadline.