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October 9, 2024
# RBC Foundation: Catalyzing Creative Careers at OCAD University
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RBC's renewed commitment of $1 million to OCAD University is a demonstration of its dedication to empowering the next generation of creative professionals with skills for a thriving future. This generous contribution further enhances the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists and Designers (RBC CEAD) and the RBC Continuing Studies Professional Skills Fund, both critical in equipping students and alumni with the skills and opportunities to succeed in the creative economy.
**Enriching Student Experience and Enhancing Employability**
The RBC CEAD offers expansive programming that enriches the student experience with practical career training, mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities. Initiatives such as Experiential Learning Placements, Career Launchers, Creative Professionals-In-Residence and the Ten Thousand Coffees OCAD U hub have produced thousands of opportunities ranging from commissions to employment in creative sectors. Annually, over 4,000 students and alumni engage with these programs, gaining valuable early career experiences.
**Advancing Creative Professional Development**
Furthering its impact, RBC also contributes to the RBC Continuing Studies Professional Skills Fund, providing financial assistance to emerging creative professionals seeking skill enhancement in today's digital economy. This fund allows for tuition relief in various OCAD U Continuing Studies Certificates, ensuring access to necessary business and design skills.
**A Legacy of Support**
RBC's collaboration with OCAD U underlines a shared commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the creative and cultural fabric of the community. Through this generous support, RBC is helping OCAD U foster the creative leaders of tomorrow.
**What inspired RBC’s recent $1 Million gift?**
*“At RBC, we are committed to equipping the next generation of creatives with skills for a thriving future by supporting artists in the earliest stages of their careers and helping them bridge the gap from ‘emerging’ to ‘established’. We are thrilled to continue our support of OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists and Designers, to help even more emerging artists make their mark.”*
\- Mark Beckles, Vice President, Social Impact and Innovation, RBC.
## Other Recent News
[### The OCAD U Mystery Art Sale Whodunit? Is Back!
More than a decade ago, the Whodunit? Mystery Art Sale was a hugely popular OCAD U tradition, drawing crowds and even public line-ups outside the doors. Now, we’re bringing it back for a new generation. On April 3, 2027, the Great Hall will host a sale of 150 original works by OCAD U students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as artists and supporters from the broader community.
March 5, 2027
](/news/ocad-u-mystery-art-sale-whodunit-back)
[### 2027 Akin Career Launcher Call For Artists
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designersand Akin have partnered since 2016 to offer this amazing annual opportunity exclusive to OCAD U graduating artists. Two(2) successful applicants will be awarded $2,000 in credits to go towards a studio space at Akin’s shared work spaces in 2027-2028, and $450 in credit for use at Remote Gallery!
January 31, 2027
](/news/2027-akin-career-launcher-call-artists)
[### Partial x OCAD University Artist Showcase Fall 2026 Call for Artists
Partial and the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers are excited to announce the return of our partnership which provides an exceptional career opportunity for OCAD U student artists and recent alumni. Selected artists will be given complimentary 2 year Pro Accounts ($240 value) on Partial and permanent inclusion as featured artists within the OCAD University Artist Showcase on Partial to display their works, and administrate artwork sales and rentals.
December 13, 2026
](/news/partial-x-ocad-university-artist-showcase-fall-2026-call-artists)
Related Stories
## Related Stories
[### The OCAD U Mystery Art Sale Whodunit? Is Back!
More than a decade ago, the Whodunit? Mystery Art Sale was a hugely popular OCAD U tradition, drawing crowds and even public line-ups outside the doors. Now, we’re bringing it back for a new generation. On April 3, 2027, the Great Hall will host a sale of 150 original works by OCAD U students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as artists and supporters from the broader community.
March 5, 2027
](/news/ocad-u-mystery-art-sale-whodunit-back)
[### 2027 Akin Career Launcher Call For Artists
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designersand Akin have partnered since 2016 to offer this amazing annual opportunity exclusive to OCAD U graduating artists. Two(2) successful applicants will be awarded $2,000 in credits to go towards a studio space at Akin’s shared work spaces in 2027-2028, and $450 in credit for use at Remote Gallery!
January 31, 2027
](/news/2027-akin-career-launcher-call-artists)
[### Partial x OCAD University Artist Showcase Fall 2026 Call for Artists
Partial and the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers are excited to announce the return of our partnership which provides an exceptional career opportunity for OCAD U student artists and recent alumni. Selected artists will be given complimentary 2 year Pro Accounts ($240 value) on Partial and permanent inclusion as featured artists within the OCAD University Artist Showcase on Partial to display their works, and administrate artwork sales and rentals.
December 13, 2026
](/news/partial-x-ocad-university-artist-showcase-fall-2026-call-artists)