Grant News
Arts Council England (ACE) has paused its Developing Your Creative Practice scheme until April 2026. To continue supporting individual artists and creative practitioners during this period, ACE has ringfenced £7.5 million for research and development projects through its National Lottery Project Grants (NLPG) programme.
This funding supports individuals in exploring ideas, experimenting with creative approaches, testing new ways of working, and undertaking research to develop their practice. Applicants can apply for grants of up to £30,000, although most awards are expected to be up to £12,000.
Projects may include, but are not limited to, creative residencies in England or internationally that support future practice; mentoring, partnerships, peer networks, critique groups, or shadowing opportunities to test new ideas and develop markets; access to production spaces or workspaces to explore and develop new work; and “go and see” opportunities, such as attending cultural events or exhibitions, to inform creative development.
Applicants must demonstrate how their project will provide public benefit. This may include future public engagement, improved accessibility, or wider cultural and creative impact.
Applications must be submitted through the £30,000 and under strand of National Lottery Project Grants. This funding is available in addition to existing NLPG support for individuals.
The deadline for applications is 12pm (midday) on 26 February 2026.
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