Arc Poetry Magazine nurtures and promotes the composition and appreciation of poetry in Canada and abroad, with particular but not exclusive emphasis on poetry written by Canadians. In addition to publishing and distributing the work of poets, Arc Poetry Magazine organizes and administers awards, contests, public readings and other events. 

Arc Poetry Magazine is run by a dedicated volunteer board made up of poets, scholars and lovers of literature, with the help of a small staff including a Managing Editor, Coordinating Editor, and Digital Editor. 

The magazine publishes three issues per year, including one themed issue (formerly known as the Arc Poetry Annual).