The Arts Council of Northern Ireland has launched a new sustainability programme for arts organisations and has also re-opened the Support for the Individual Artist Programme. 

The Arts Sector is facing a challenging future where organisations will need to examine different operating models and seek funds from sources beyond the public sector. The Arts Council has designed the sustainability programme to help organisations take appropriate action to ensure their future sustainability through the implementation of permanent, significant change measures intended to transform how the organisations delivers its services. Measures that could be implemented under the sustainability programme include:

  – Developing new business models

 – Establishing artform hubs

 – Exploring alternative sources of finance

 – Mergers/partnerships

 – Artform collaborations

Potential applicants are asked to consult with the Arts Council before making an application to this programme which closes on Thursday 23rd July. Click here for more information on this programme

The International Programme for Organisations has also reopened. As part of this programme there are two funding streams, Professional Arts Abroad and Artists International Development Fund.

Applications for this programme will remain open until Thursday 30th July. 

 Click here for further details

Individual artists are now invited to apply for funding under the Support for the Individual Artist Programme (including Travel Awards). This programme offers the following awards:

 – General Arts Awards (Maximum Award £2,000 for one project only)

 – Artists Career Enhancement Scheme (Award £5,000)

 – Major Individual Awards (3 awards of £15,000 available)

 – Artists International Development Fund (Maximum Award £5,000)

 – Self-Arranged Residencies (Maximum Award £5,000)