11 December 2024
Halifax/K’jipuktuk, NS
The Nova Scotia Talent Trust (NSTT) is thrilled to announce the establishment of a new annual scholarship sponsored by the Hal-Con Sci-Fi & Fantasy Association.
This exciting new partnership reflects Hal-Con’s commitment to supporting the next generation of creative talent and NSTT’s vision to support emerging artists across all genres, enhancing our province’s cultural landscape.
The Hal-Con Sci-Fi & Fantasy Association, well-known for its annual convention celebrating science fiction, fantasy, comics, and gaming, recognizes this scholarship as an opportunity to further its mission of fostering creativity and community within these genres. By supporting aspiring artists and game developers, Hal-Con is helping to ensure that Nova Scotia remains a vibrant hub for imaginative and innovative work.
“We are delighted to work with NSTT on the creation of this new scholarship” says Fleurette Benoit, Chair of the Hal-Con Board of Directors. “Through this initiative, we hope to encourage creativity, innovation, and diversity within these exciting fields, while providing much-needed financial support to those who are shaping the future of these vibrant industries.”
It is with excitement that NSTT announces the new Hal-Con Scholarship, open for applications in 2025. In August 2023, the Hal-Con Sci-Fi & Fantasy Association made a significant investment of $30,000 in the Nova Scotia Talent Trust Foundation Endowment. This generous contribution ensures the scholarship will be awarded in perpetuity, providing $1,000 annually to support emerging artists.
The Hal-Con Scholarship, valued at $1,000, will be awarded annually to an emerging artist or student in the fields of creative arts or gaming development, with preference given to those demonstrating an interest in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy genres. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a deserving NSTT applicant selected by the independent Scholarship Selection Committee, which is made up of professional artists across multiple disciplines.
“We are excited to broaden our support to a new community of emerging artists through this collaboration with Hal-Con,” said Andrea Urquhart, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Talent Trust. “Recognizing and celebrating diverse forms of art, including Sci-Fi/Fantasy and gaming development enriches Nova Scotia’s artistic community. By building strong community partnerships with organizations like Hal-Con, we can maximize our impact and support for emerging artists.”
The first Hal-Con Scholarship will be awarded in 2025, and applications will be open to all eligible NSTT applicants studying in relevant fields. More information about the scholarship and how to apply can be found on the NSTT website.
Media Contact:
Andrea Urquhart
Executive Director, NSTT
902-492-6801
director@nstalenttrust.ns.ca
About the Hal-Con Sci-Fi & Fantasy Association
Hal-Con is dedicated to uniting members of the sci-fi & fantasy community by organizing Atlantic Canada’s largest annual convention, along with a variety of year-round events aimed at fostering connections and enhancing the community. Committed to celebrating pop culture, Hal-Con strives to establish itself as a cornerstone of Nova Scotian events while making a positive impact on both culture and the economy.
With core values centered on equality, opportunity, and the freedom of self-expression, Hal-Con prioritizes safety and inclusivity, fostering a welcoming environment where individuals can showcase their art and costume designs, forge friendships, and celebrate together.
About the Nova Scotia Talent Trust
Since 1944, NSTT has provided more than $2.7 million in scholarships and special awards to over 1,500 Nova Scotians pursuing careers in the disciplines of Music, Dance, Film, Theatre, Literary Arts, and Visual Arts. It is the only organization of its kind in the country. 2024 marks the Talent Trust’s 80th anniversary of supporting emerging artists in Nova Scotia.
