221A is a non-profit cultural organization based on unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) territory, that provides housing, studio spaces, funding, and resources that support artist research, creation, and presentation within contemporary art and culture. 221A focuses on improving the conditions of low-income Black, Indigenous and racialized artists and communities, creating new tools for a more sustainable and accessible cultural sector, and contributing to public knowledge and dialogue on the historical and intellectual conditions of art and design.

221A is the founder of a networked cultural land trust model, currently underway in Vancouver. The project facilitates community acquisition and management of land through which long-term, below-market leases and pathways to ownership can be provided to artists and charitable organizations, with a focus on BIPOC tenants.

Among other projects, 221A is also collaborating with the Yee Fung Toy Society to develop a mixed-use community-based cultural hub in Chinatown with low-income housing for seniors and artists and specialized production and presentation spaces. The design is intended to foster intergenerational exchange and create a long-term partnership model for community-owned assets.

Our engagement included:

Research, coaching, and consultation to inform the development of the organization’s private fundraising strategy. Deliverables included an internal audit, external scan, preliminary prospecting, data frameworks and analysis for target development, collaborative support with the development and integration of new systems and practices, strategic and tactical recommendations.