Writers Trust of Canada

The Writers’ Trust of Canada was founded by five notable Canadian authors — Margaret Atwood, the late Pierre Berton, Graeme Gibson, the late Margaret Laurence, and David Young — to encourage a flourishing writing community in this country.

Since 1976, the Writers’ Trust of Canada, led by volunteers from the arts and business communities, has directed support from the private sector to Canadian writers and writing.

This country's writers receive more financial support from the Writers’ Trust of Canada than any other non-governmental organization or foundation in the country. Annually, the organization provides almost half a million dollars directly to a group of approximately 100 writers.

Watch a video below where prominent writers talk about the impact the Writers' Trust has had on their careers and on the Canadian writing community.



 
Five program streams support Canadian writers:

• Canada’s largest privately-funded collection of literary awards
• A one-of-a-kind grant for creators facing unforeseen financial need
• Canada’s most significant writers’ retreat
• A scholarship program open to emerging writers
• An annual lecture series that details the development of the national writing community

Through these various initiatives the Writers’ Trust provides opportunities, rewards successes, and enables writers to stand at the forefront of Canadian culture.

Money raised to finance the charitable activities of the Writers’ Trust is drawn almost exclusively from the private sector. Ninety-eight percent of all revenue is drawn from corporations, foundations, and individuals.

The organization is composed of a volunteer Board of Directors, a volunteer Authors’ Committee, and a staff of five. 

Mission

To advance, nurture, and celebrate Canadian writers and writing.

Vision

To champion excellence in Canadian writing, to improve the status of writers in this country and to create connections between writers and readers.

Values

• We support Canadian writers as a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization;

• We value Canadian writers and their works as essential components of our vibrant and diverse cultures;

• We nourish professional writers at every stage of their careers;

• We embrace partnerships with readers and organizations dedicated to assisting Canadian writers;

• We welcome openness and flexibility while adhering to the highest standards of fiscal integrity and responsibility.