Call for applications: British Council grant in Morocco

Artists in Morocco and the UK can propose creative projects that explore social, economic or cultural relation and history between the two countries. Successful applicants will receive grants from £5 000 to £10 000 ($7 000 to $14 000). 

The grant aims to strengthen artistic practice through supporting production and/or showcasing activities. The grantees will also be given opportunities to build their professional networks and make new connections in the two countries.

“What matters to us is that the work engages audiences in both countries and generates conversations and reflection about the two countries’ joint history, which is usually obscure and unknown to the general public,” the organisation said. “At a time of significant challenge for artists and the cultural sector globally, the British Council remains committed to supporting the development of diverse and creative expression and mutual cultural exchange between the UK and the rest of the world.”

Who can apply?

The British Council will accept applications from artists, creatives and cultural practitioners exploring all forms of art including but not limited to: 

• Music
• Architecture
• Design
• Fashion
• Film
• Literature
• Theatre
• Dance 
• Visual Arts

The British Council is looking to fund the following kinds of projects (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Production of new artistic work.  
• Exhibitions and showcasing events.
• Digital creative projects and platforms.

Project eligibility

The proposed project must:

• Respond to the theme of the call, exploring the UK and Morocco's shared history and contemporary links.
• Work directly with artists and support the development of creative work. Be implemented between 1 April and 31 October 2021.
• Focus on reaching either a face to face and/or online audience. The grant aims to increase the visibility and awareness of new contemporary and experimental art from Morocco and the UK. The engagement of a significant online and/or face to face audience is therefore essential.
• Be administrated by one person with a legal presence and a bank account to receive funds. They must also be responsible for the mid-project, end of project report and the project’s external communications and contact the British Council. 

The grant could be used for the following purposes (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Payment of artists and key individuals involved in the project.
• Costs of materials needed for production.
• Costs of studio or venue rental.
• Costs of running physical and virtual events and activities.  
• Logistical costs such as travel, per diem and accommodation.

Selection process

The application process will be based on:

• Eligibility – The application should meet all the essential criteria. 
• Feasibility –The proposal should be clear and well developed, and the timeline and budget should be reasonable.
• Creativity – The project should respond creatively to a local or global challenge.
• Location – The project should be implemented in Morocco, the UK or both countries.  

Interested individuals should download and complete the application form attached below. Applicants should send the filled application form to the British Council arts manager at farah.fawzi@britishcouncil.org.

The application deadline is 1 March at midnght.

Other important dates.

• Successful applicants will be notified and published from 5 March.
• Funds will be released in April 2021.
• Successful projects and activities will be completed with report and evaluation submitted by 31 October.