A strong endowment is a vital element of the VSO's strategic plan for ongoing stability and steady growth. Revenue from the endowment helps to sustain the overall financial health of the VSO over the long term, funding the following activities:

• Fresh, Engaging Programming – inviting acclaimed guest artists from around the world, staying on the leading edge of trends in the orchestral and music community, and responding to the needs of diverse and changing audiences
• Attracting and Retaining World-Class Talent – competing with other orchestras across North America and around the world to bring the best and brightest performers to the VSO
• Innovative Education & Community Programs – investing in British Columbia's artistic future by reaching out to young minds, diverse audiences and emerging talent

The Vancouver Symphony Society has two endowment funds:

• The Vancouver Symphony Foundation – established in 1993
• The Vancouver Symphony Fund at the Vancouver Foundation – established in 1961

In both cases, funds donated are invested in perpetuity. Only the interest and dividends can be distributed to the Vancouver Symphony Society. In accordance with by-laws, donations to the principal cannot be withdrawn or encroached upon by the VSO's Board of Directors under any circumstances.

Matching Grants

Endowment Gifts will be enhanced by the availability of government matching grants, up to $350,000 from the Province of BC under the BC Arts Renaissance Endowment Fund matching program each year for three years, and $2 Million annually from the Federal government under the Endowment Incentives Component of the Canadian Arts and Heritage Sustainability Program over the next five years. These matching programs provide a clear incentive to contribute to the campaign, as any dollar gifted can become two – or even three, in some cases.

Named Gift Opportunities

You may wish to honour the legacy of your family or company, or celebrate the memory of a loved one with a gift to the VSO's endowment. Whatever your motivation, the VSO would be pleased to discuss this with you and offer you the opportunity to support the power of music in a most unique and lasting way.

To learn more about the VSO's endowment, please contact
Leanne Davis at 604.684.9100 extension 236 or email Leanne@vancouversymphony.ca.

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