The National Arts Council (NAC) has opened applications for the 2019 Project Funding cycle. Individuals and registered arts organisations have until 30 March 2019 to submit their applications for project funding. This will be the NAC’s second round of funding with new programmes and applications utilising an online system following the entity’s strategic realignment in 2018.

Applicants can apply for funding within the following programmes: Social Cohesion and Nation Building, Innovation, Design and Creation of New Work, Capacity Building, Strategic Initiatives as well as Platforms, Exhibitions and Festivals.

Projects should be of national significance, focusing on the creation of new works and overall arts development. Those that have a strong community base and have been conceived in collaboration with others working in similar fields are also encouraged to apply.

“At the National Arts Council, we are committed to changing the landscape of South Africa’s creative industries. Key to this transformation is not only supporting South Africa’s existing centres of excellence but also identifying and fostering emerging talent nationwide. These are organisations and individuals that will be our future standard-bearers for the arts, both nationally and internationally. In our on-going efforts to ensure that the arts are as inclusive as possible, we are particularly keen to encourage funding applications from arts organisations and individuals that support the involvement of women, youth and people living with disabilities.” Says the NAC Interim CEO, Dr Sibongiseni Mkhize.

The funding call will close on 12 April 2019 and successful applications will be announced on 30 June 2019. Funding guidelines are available on the NAC website and applicants can register and complete the online applications on the Praxis GMS link on the NAC website.

Proposed projects must demonstrate impact and value for the communities they operate in and should also demonstrate at least two of the following outcomes: economic value, creative value, social value, therapeutic value and educational value.

Individuals and arts organisations are encouraged to visit the NAC website for funding guidelines and to apply for funding.