Additional funding from the province will help propel the NaAC’s Chung Centre development to break ground Summer 2026.
CALGARY – On March 3, 2026, at the National accessArts Centre’s (NaAC’s) annual fundraising gala held at the Calgary Zoo, the Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, announced that the Government of Alberta will be increasing its support for the organization’s capital project by $1.89 million. This funding, in addition to the $1 million received through Arts, Culture and Status of Women, now brings the total provincial investment to $2.89 million.
The project, now named The Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity, is part of the NaAC’s accessible arts campus, a development precipitated by the collapse of the Fairview Arena in 2018 that impacted the organization’s current facility. Once completed, both the Chung Centre and its adjoining Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre facility – located in the community of West Hillhurst – will provide close to 30,000 square feet of dedicated creation and learning spaces for the NaAC’s growing community of more than 400 artists living with disabilities.
“The National accessArts Centre plays an important role in helping Albertans with disabilities explore their creativity, build confidence, and share their talents. Supporting the Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity project is one way our government is helping strengthen Alberta’s arts community and celebrating artists with disabilities.”
The Honourable Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services
With this additional funding, the NaAC can now move full speed ahead to breaking ground this summer, followed by an 18-month construction period. The Chung Centre – North America’s first, purpose-built, performing arts centre for the disability community – is expected to open late 2027 or early 2028.
“This unprecedented support from Minister Nixon and the Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services towards our capital project indicates strong confidence in the programs we are delivering at the National accessArts Centre. When completed, the Chung Centre will be a jewel of Alberta – showcasing a new side to our arts and culture scene, while demonstrating Alberta’s commitment to uplifting and celebrating the talents of Albertans living with disabilities.”
Jung-Suk (JS) Ryu, President and CEO, National accessArts Centre
The Government of Alberta – through the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) program – is the NaAC’s single largest public sector funder. The Chung Centre development is funded by all levels of government, along with a lead gift from Vancouver-based business leaders Drs. Peter and Stephanie Chung announced in February.
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For more information, please contact:
Jung-Suk (JS) Ryu
President and CEO
403.404.3174
js.ryu@accessarts.ca
