The Women’s Art Association of Canada (WAAC) has supported emerging artists for over 75 years through its Scholarship Program, established in 1948. This initiative provides financial aid to students in various artistic disciplines at Canadian post-secondary institutions. The program has evolved to meet the changing needs of students and the arts community, contributing to the development of notable artists such as Karen Kain, Rex Harrington, Measha Brueggergosman, and Jean Stilwell.

The WAAC continues its commitment to supporting emerging artists, awarding 14 scholarships for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to students at eight institutions. The scholarships cover a range of artistic pursuits and are funded through donor and WAAC member contributions. The institutions select the scholarship recipients.

Dixie Allen has recently been appointed Chair of the Scholarship Program. For the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the program is awarding 14 scholarships to students at 8 esteemed institutions: George Brown College, Toronto Metropolitan University, Sheridan College, University of Toronto, The Royal Conservatory of Music, OCAD University, Canada’s National Ballet School.

Thanks to a recent Estate Bequest, WAAC has been able to expand its reach with a new initiative at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, offering a Scholarship in Canadian Art History Indigenous Art Studies and Practices.