EDUCATION FUNDING FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES IN TRANSITION

Federal government employees in Canada who are affected by workforce adjustment (WFA) may be eligible for education funding to support retraining and career transition.

If you’re considering a career transition and interested in pursuing photographic arts, this funding may be applied toward SPAO’s college diploma program. It’s worth exploring your eligibility to see how these benefits could support your studies.

Consider speaking with your manager or HR representative to learn more about the options available to you.

OTHER FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

There are a number of other federal and provincial funding programs available to support post-secondary education in Canada. For example, Canadian Armed Forces veterans and service members may be eligible for the Education and Training Benefit through Veterans Affairs Canada, which can be applied toward college or university studies.

Additionally, students with permanent disabilities may qualify for federal grants and supports through the Canada Student Grants program, which helps cover tuition and accessibility-related costs.

SOLSTICE BURSARY: DIPLOMA PROGRAM

SPAO believes that diverse voices are crucial in establishing a better, more equitable arts community; those from marginalized communities and those experiencing financial hardship cannot be left behind. Financial instability disproportionately affects Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) people, communities of colour, members of the Trans community, people with disabilities and other marginalized people. As such, SPAO has created Solstice Bursaries prioritizing those in financial need from these traditionally marginalized groups. The Solstice Bursary covers the cost of the second year of the Diploma Program tuition. SPAO recognizes that the word "marginalized" could mean many things to different communities. Those in financial need who also self-identify as marginalized are encouraged to apply.

Any application to our college diploma program, in which the applicant identifies as a marginalized person, will be considered for the Solstice Bursary. Applicants can indicate this information within the college diploma program application.

LUNA BURSARY: DIPLOMA PROGRAM

The LUNA bursary is given out annually to a diploma student who, during their first year at SPAO, as well as in their application to the bursary, demonstrates drive and a focused direction for their work going forward. This is a merit-based bursary however, financial need may play a role in determining the final selection between comparable applications. This student must be proceeding from the first year into the second year of the diploma program.

The value of this bursary is $1,500.

SPAO PATH BURSARY: DIPLOMA PROGRAM

Completing all the courses identified in red on the SPAO Path makes you eligible to apply for advanced standing (direct entry into Year 2) of SPAO’s Diploma Program or receive a $5000 CAD bursary toward the full 2-year program. If you complete these courses but are not accepted for advanced standing, you are still guaranteed the $5000 bursary

ZAGON BURSARY: DIPLOMA PROGRAM / RESIDENCY

The James Zagon Bursary was created to uplift emerging photographic talent at a pivotal stage in their artistic journey. Established by Sandra Zagon in memory of her late husband, this bursary provides meaningful financial support to help an individual overcome economic barriers as they pursue their career development through either the SPAO Diploma Program or the SPAO Artist Residency.

A lifelong avid photographer who documented the people and places around him, James Zagon blended artistic vision with technical mastery throughout his long career at the Bank of Canada where he photographed the National Currency Collection. Born in New York in 1945, he moved to Ottawa in 1970, where he lived with his wife of almost 32 years before passing away in 2002.

The James Zagon Bursary recipient is determined by a jury of senior SPAO staff.

For more information e-mail admin@spao.ca.

Every year, there are a series of awards given to students at the end-of-year ceremony. There are no applications for these awards. These are awarded by SPAO staff or judges selected by SPAO. 

First Year

Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Exhibition Production
Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Portfolio Production

Second Year

Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Exhibition Production
Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of an outstanding body of work
Alumni Award - For integrity of vision from first year to second year
Marc Guertin Craftsmanship Award - For dedication and commitment to experimental and exploratory approaches

Any Year

Directors Award - For community spirit and volunteerism
Lux Award - In recognition of outstanding achievement in lighting
Silver Award - Award for best use of traditional and historical processes
Albino Pescatore Book Art Award - In recognition of book design and thought-provoking content

JUDE PETER
SOLSTICE BURSARY