Big boost for Kingston writers as WordLabs secures major new funding — and big changes are coming

Kingston Literacy & Skills to expand workshops, youth programming, film seminars and artist support through 2026.

Kingston Literacy & Skills (KL&S) is expanding its growing WordLabs literary arts program after securing new project funding for 2025–2026. The program, which launched quietly this spring, currently offers writing workshops, seminar classes, peer groups and a weekly WordLabs Out Loud radio show on CFRC.

With support from the City of Kingston Arts Fund, WordLabs will add youth-focused workshops, public open-mic events and professional development sessions delivered with local arts partners. A new film development and screenwriting seminar series will be created with the Kingston Canadian Film Festival, including a free workshop at the 2026 festival.

WordLabs will also team up with the Kingston Music Office to host training sessions for artists on writing bios and preparing strong grant applications.

The Davies Foundation is contributing further support, allowing WordLabs to offer bursaries so financial barriers don’t limit participation.

Literary programming coordinator Aara Macauley says the funding strengthens opportunities for both emerging and established artists while expanding access to low-cost creative development across Kingston.

Story by Alyssa Brush