Newcomer Arts Professional Program (NAPP)

The Newcomer Arts Professional Program (NAPP) is a dedicated professional development and mentorship initiative tailored to empower and support newcomer arts professionals. NAPP serves as a pivotal platform, fostering connections, resource access, educational enrichment, and professional establishment within the Canadian arts landscape. This opportunity is for newcomer arts professionals in both Edmonton and Calgary only.

NAPP Cohort 5 applications are now open

A new NAPP cohort is here! Apply now!

NAPP 2026–2027 has officially launched in Calgary and Edmonton. If you’re a newcomer arts professional, arts administrator, or cultural worker ready for mentorship, career coaching, paid professional opportunities, and real sector connections, this program is for you!

NAPP is a dedicated professional development initiative designed to empower newcomer arts professionals through personalized one-on-one mentorship, industry-led training, strategic networking, and comprehensive career guidance. Serving Edmonton and Calgary, the program offers meaningful connections, access to resources, and professional growth within Alberta’s arts sector, bridging gaps and opening doors.

Applications are open until April 30th, 2026.

Apply today!

Core Offerings

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by newcomer arts professionals in navigating their careers and securing professional opportunities within the arts sector, NAPP is committed to bridging this gap through targeted professional development sessions and compensated mentorship programs.

Personalized one-on-one mentorship.

Professional development sessions facilitated by esteemed Canadian arts professionals.

Comprehensive training programs, and exposure to the Canadian arts industry.

One-on-One career coaching session

NAPP extends vital support by providing reliable information, deliberate networking opportunities, and sector-specific insights.

Paid opportunity to gain Canadian experience and comprehensive guidance.

Essential information for the successful establishment of careers in Canada.

Newcomer Arts Professional Program (NAPP) cohorts

Featured
NAPP Cohort 4
NAPP Cohort 4

Newcomer Arts Professional Program 2025

Read More →
NAPP Cohort 3
NAPP Cohort 3

Newcomer Arts Professional Program 2024

Read More →
NAPP Cohort 2
NAPP Cohort 2
Read More →
NAPP Cohort 1
NAPP Cohort 1
Read More →

Alumni Testimonials

  • NAPP helped me to have more opportunities as an immigrant artist. My mentor and I discussed the arts scene in Alberta, art movements and art history. We shared ideas.

    Sahar Hakimi, Visual Artist from Iran

  • Before NAPP I wouldn't say that I am a writer and a multi-platform storyteller, now I tell it to a crowd! NAPP gave me back my soul, showing me that I didn’t have to give up on my creativity and passion because I am a newcomer. Thanks to everyone in NAPP, I will keep on the journey of pursuing my goals.

    Lia Pereira, Writer from Brazil

  • NAPP means a lot to me. I am very new and IAMP gave me everything I need to continue my career in Canada. I am so lucky! My mentor was very experienced and I learned about the Canadian arts scene from him. He freely shared his artistic experience with me.

    Juan (Joey) Qi, Illustrator from China

Previous

Mentors in Residence (MiR)
Next

Artist of the Month