National Arts Council open to funding social cohesion projects

Do you have an amazing and innovative arts project that needs a financial injection? Individuals and registered arts organisations can now apply to the National Arts Council (NAC) for project funding for 2020.

The NAC is an implementing agency of the department of sport, arts and culture, responsible for developing, supporting, promoting and advancing the arts. It does so by disbursing grants for endeavours that strive to build a vibrant, sustainable arts community.

Last year, 237 South African organisations and projects received NAC grants totalling R49 million. The closing date for this year’s arts project funding applications is 30 April, with the results to be announced in July.

Applicants should take into account the NAC’s mandate to support new works, develop and promote the arts, create jobs and capacity in the sector, promote entrepreneurship and facilitate access to the arts.

The projects must fall within the ambit of at least one of the following NAC programmes:

Social cohesion and nation building

Innovation, design and creation of new work

Capacity building

Strategic initiatives

Rosemary Mangope, the council’s CEO, says: “We would love to see more compassion art proposals and submissions with community impact and cross-disciplinary collaboration at their core.

“Projects that find innovative and smart ways to promote environmental sustainability will be prioritised.

“The arts are a proven catalyst for sparking conversations and healing around complex societal issues.

“The focus will be on works that promote nation building and social cohesion.”

Mangope adds that the value proposition should be a core element of each application.

Funding is between R100 000 and R500 000 per project.

Applicants must register and complete the online application form using the following link: https://nac.praxisgms.co.za/ – Citizen reporter