NAC Opens R350 000 Funding Window for Artists, Groups for 2026–27

The funding call forms part of the NAC’s ongoing mandate to strengthen South Africa’s creative economy, promote cultural expression and advance redress and transformation across the arts sector.

 The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) has officially opened applications for project funding for the 2026–2027 financial year, calling on artists, arts organisations and community art centres to submit proposals that demonstrate social impact, innovation and community value.

The funding call forms part of the NAC’s ongoing mandate to strengthen South Africa’s creative economy, promote cultural expression and advance redress and transformation across the arts sector.

Who Can Apply

The invitation is open to active arts practitioners, whether applying as individuals or as registered organisations, working across the following disciplines:craft, dance, literature, music, theatre and musical theatre, visual arts, and multidisciplinary practices.

Applicants may submit only one application, regardless of whether they apply as a natural or juristic person.

The maximum funding amount is capped at R350 000 per project.

Priority: Impact, Inclusion and Innovation

The NAC said it is seeking projects that not only entertain but also educate and enlighten audiences, while delivering measurable benefits to the communities they serve.

“This call appeals to arts practitioners to present projects that can continue to educate, entertain and enlighten audiences. Proposed projects must demonstrate impact and value for the communities in which they operate,” the council said.

Special consideration will be given to projects that present South African indigenous art forms, as well as initiatives focused on capacity building in intellectual property and arts entrepreneurship.

Six Critical Focus Areas

All proposed projects must address at least two of the NAC’s six critical focus areas, which are central to the council’s funding framework:

Social cohesion and nation buildingProjects should promote unity, inclusion and community dialogue, particularly involving previously excluded groups.

Marginalised and indigenous artsPriority will be given to projects that uplift rural communities and showcase indigenous and rare art forms that remain underrepresented in mainstream platforms.

Addressing social illsArtistic initiatives that tackle challenges such as gender-based violence, xenophobia, substance abuse, gangsterism and violent crime will be highly considered.

Supporting vulnerable groupsProjects that create employment or participation opportunities for women, people living with disabilities and rural communities are encouraged.

New works and digital artsInnovative projects introducing new artistic works, including digital and technology-driven art forms, will be prioritised.

Capacity building and arts entrepreneurshipProjects must demonstrate how they will develop skills, improve business acumen and support sustainable creative enterprises.

Application Process and Deadline

Applications must be submitted online via the NAC grant management system by Friday, 13 March 2026 at 11:59pm:https://nac.praxisgms.co.za/

Manual application forms may be requested from info@nac.org.za, but this option is strictly reserved for applicants without access to the internet.

The NAC has stressed that late or incomplete applications will not be considered, and no exceptions will be made.

Supporting South Africa’s Creative Economy

Operating under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the NAC plays a key role in funding and facilitating artistic and cultural initiatives that contribute to job creation, social development and the preservation of South Africa’s diverse heritage.

Funding guidelines are available at www.nac.org.za.For enquiries, contact info@nac.org.za or call 011 010 8886.