The National accessArts Centre (NaAC) in Calgary has received a significant financial boost to expand its programs for artists living with disabilities. TD Bank Group has committed $1.5 million over the next three years, a major investment announced on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the charity's facility in southeast Calgary.
A Transformative Investment for Canadian Artists
This new funding commitment builds on a previous four-year, $750,000 agreement from TD that concluded last year. With this latest pledge, TD's total support for the NaAC will exceed $2.2 million by the end of 2028. NaAC president and CEO Jung-Suk Ryu hailed this as the largest corporate investment in the history of Canada's disability rights movement.
"It's a hugely emotional day for us," Ryu stated. "It takes resources to be able to showcase the true talents of our artists, and this commitment from TD allows us to do that and then some. This transformative gift will continue to bolster our efforts in delivering world-class programs that change the trajectory of what it means to be an artist with a disability today."
Empowering Artists and Shaping Community Perspectives
The NaAC currently supports nearly 400 artists with developmental or physical disabilities, offering professional training and opportunities to exhibit their work. Robert Ghazal, senior vice-president and Alberta region head for TD Bank Group, emphasized the critical role these artists play.
"We know that this type of programming serves as an incubator for artists to develop and share their extraordinary talents with the rest of the world," Ghazal said. "They help shape the way we think … and we know that arts and culture initiatives have this incredible power to connect communities."
Firsthand Impact on Artists
Longtime NaAC artist Rachel Harding shared how the centre's multidisciplinary programs—which include visual art, music, and photography—have been life-changing. She has even showcased her work internationally.
"There's so much magic that happens here," Harding expressed. "Thanks to the programs at the NaAC, I have gained a new level of confidence knowing there is a global audience that is eager to see my latest works and better understand my perspective as someone with a disability."
The funding ensures the NaAC can continue its mission to provide equitable art day programs, fostering an environment where artists with disabilities can thrive and redefine their creative potential on a national and international stage.
