We have some exciting news for the downtown Kitchener arts community! Our “Meanwhile Space” project at 99 King Street West has been officially extended. We are now inviting artists to join this unique shared studio residency through August 30th, 2026.

If you’ve been looking for a bright, professional, and central place to anchor your practice this summer, now is the time to apply.

The Vision: A Suite Built for Creativity

In partnership with Lowland Properties Group, we’ve taken a dynamic vacant suite on the third floor of 99 King and transformed it into a collaborative haven for visual artists.

This isn’t just a room; it’s a dedicated environment designed to help you connect with other local creators while maintaining your own focused workspace.

Space Details at a Glance

• The Footprint: Each artist is allotted a 14’ x 14’ workspace.

• The Vibe: Classic urban loft with plenty of natural light, high ceilings, and downtown energy.

• Amenities: The suite is equipped with a dedicated paint sink, full heating and air conditioning, and gender-neutral washrooms.

• Access: Work on your own schedule with secure 24/7 FOB access.

• The Walk-up: Please note, this beautiful third-floor space is accessed via 44 stairs (no elevator), perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of a daily climb!

Affordable & Accessible

We know that price is a major barrier for many artists. To keep this space accessible, the cost is just $330.00 per month (all-inclusive).

Claim One of the Final 3 Spots

We currently have 3 out of 5 spots available for artists practicing visual arts, media arts, or other “quiet” creative disciplines.

Because this is a meanwhile space residency, these spots are available specifically through August 30th, 2026. Whether you have a specific project you need to wrap up or you’re looking to kickstart a new body of work this summer, 99 King is ready for you.

Ready to move in? Apply Here

Need Support? If you have questions about the layout, accessibility, or the application process, please reach out to our team at coordinator@artsbuildontario.ca.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news for the Waterloo arts community! Due to the success of our ongoing partnership with the City of Waterloo, the Meanwhile Spaces program at Wing 404 has been officially extended. Local artists, collectives, and arts organizations now have access to this versatile, historic venue until May 29th, 2026.

What is Wing 404?

Located at 510 Dutton Drive, Wing 404 is a unique, multi-functional space designed to support the creative process. Whether you are mounting a large-scale rehearsal, hosting a movement workshop, or looking for a quiet place to develop a new literary work, Wing 404 offers the infrastructure you need to succeed.

As part of the Meanwhile Spaces initiative, this venue provides a low-cost, high-flexibility solution for creators in a time when affordable space is harder than ever to find.

Space Features & Amenities

Wing 404 is a highly adaptable facility that can be used as one large venue or divided into three distinct sections:

• The Stage Room (Assembly 1 & 2): 34′ x 42′ — Perfect for large rehearsals and performances.

• The Fireplace Room (Assembly 3): 34′ x 34′ — A cozy yet spacious mid-sized area.

• The Forest Room (Assembly 4 & 5): Two smaller, intimate spaces (24.3′ x 27.2′ and 17′ x 19′) ideal for small groups or clean visual arts.

Technical & Site Specs:

• Capacity: Up to 300 standing or 272 seated.

• Tech: High-speed Wi-Fi, projector screen, and a full sound system.

• Furnishings: 136 chairs and over 30 tables (various sizes) are available for use.

• Access: 24/7 key access for selected tenants.

• Parking: On-site parking for up to 90 vehicles (no permit required).

• Comfort: Full heating, air conditioning, and kitchenette on-site.

Booking & Eligibility

Wing 404 is suitable for movement practices, performance arts, literary arts, and “clean” visual arts (e.g., no ceramics or excessive paint). The space is designed to accommodate both quiet practices and loud production work.

Affordable Rates:

$12.00 + HST per hour

• Primetime (Mon-Sat, 5 PM – 10 PM): 3-hour minimum booking.

• Non-Primetime: 1-hour minimum increments.

Accessibility Note

We strive to be transparent about our facility’s accessibility. Wing 404 is a ground-level facility with no stairs. Washrooms are available and include stalls wide enough for mobility devices with handrails; however, please note they are not currently classified as universal or gender-neutral.

How to Apply

We are currently accepting applications from local artists and organizations looking to make Wing 404 their creative home through 2026.

• Apply Online

• Questions? For support requests or more information, please email our coordinator at coordinator@artsbuildontario.ca.

We’re pleased to open applications for the 2026 Creative Spaces Mentoring Network (CSMN)—a program designed to support arts organizations and creative spaces across Ontario through one-to-one mentorship.

One-to-One Mentorship

Each mentee is matched with a mentor who brings relevant expertise in:

• Creative spaces and cultural facilities
• Capital projects
• Asset management
• Organizational strategy
• Community development

Mentors and mentees meet up to three hours per month during two segments:

• Phase One: April–June
• Phase Two: September–November

Together, they will focus on the mentee’s priority areas and long-term goals.

New for 2026: Capstone Project

Each mentee will complete one practical, high-value deliverable developed in collaboration with their mentor. Options include:

• Space Sustainability Blueprint – A roadmap to strengthen long-term viability
• Micro Feasibility Study – A focused analysis for emerging space plans
• Fundraising Readiness Package – Essential materials to prepare for capital or operating campaigns
• Space Activation Pilot – A test activation or community engagement initiative
• Partnerships & Space Opportunities Map – A regional scan of collaborators and underused spaces

Professional Development Session

The program pauses for July and August, during which mentees will take part in a tailored professional development session based on the cohort’s needs.

Applications 

Apply to be a Mentee: We are now accepting applications for 15 Mentee spots for the 2025 program! To apply, complete the Application Form Please send your application by January 16th, 2026.

Fees:

• If selected as a Mentee, there is a $175 + HST fee once a successful mentor match is made.

Apply to be a Mentor: Are you an experienced arts professional with knowledge of cultural facilities, capital projects, or strategic planning? We are seeking Mentors for the program! If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer mentor, please complete the Mentor Application Form.

For questions or more information, please contact Tatiana Doucette, Director of Programs and Partnerships at programs@artsbuildontario.ca.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Join us for an engaging 1.5-hour SPRE webinar designed for arts and culture collectives and organizations working to sustain mission-driven arts spaces with artists at the center.

In SPRE 105: Funding Artist-Oriented Spaces, fundraising expert Nevine Sedki (from Further Together) will break down how using a Community-Centric Fundraising approach can help you fund your space without treating community needs like an afterthought.

Grounded in community-informed research on what artists need to meaningfully access space, this session will show you how to build fundraising strategies that focus on equity, access, and community values – so your org can stay strong and make a better case for support. Whether you’re renting space or managing your own venue, you’ll leave with real tools to center community and keep artists’ needs front and center.

About the Presenter:

Nevine Sedki is a seasoned Resource Mobilizer and Nonprofit Director with over 25 years of experience in philanthropy, equity, and community engagement within the arts and social impact sectors. Nevine is committed to using the arts as a powerful tool for systemic social change and mobilizing community-centric support for arts and social justice initiatives, fostering transformative change through the intersection of creativity, advocacy and activism.  A music enthusiast, she also channels her passion as a DJ and radio host with over two decades of experience, sharing her love for diverse sounds and musical storytelling with listeners.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Department of Canadian Heritage. 

Register here!

Exciting News for Creatives in the Waterloo Region! 

ArtsBuild Ontario is thrilled to announce the recruitment for our third cohort for the Meanwhile Spaces in Waterloo Region partnership with the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund and local organizations.

Artists and organizations are invited to APPLY for the opportunity to access a below market rental space across different sites in Waterloo and Kitchener, from now until  March 31st, 2026. 

Potential uses for space include:

• Visual artist studios
• Wellness classes, such as yoga and meditation
• Music lessons (vocal or instrumental)
• Small and medium band or theatre group rehearsals

APPLY NOW!