Call for applications: National Arts Council of South Africa 2023 project funding

Only one application will be supported from both an individual and an organisation/company. Projects should demonstrate the ability to be sustainable over a period.

The invitation is open to active art practitioners in the disciplines of music, craft, dance, literature, multidiscipline, theatre and visual arts. Applications presenting content in South African indigenous art forms are encouraged to apply.

In each of the seven arts disciplines mentioned above, the proposed projects must have the capability to address at least two of the five critical focus areas below:

• Social cohesion and national building: This is the extent to which the project brings communities together as well as allows for the inclusion of previously excluded parts of the society while at the same time creating national unity.
• Marginalised and indigenous arts: Projects to be considered must focus on uplifting rural communities as they have a wealth of indigenous and rare artistic expressions that remain in the shadow of mainstream arts. Projects that seek to unearth and profile these hidden art forms by exposing the arts and the practitioners in marginalised areas to new audiences and markets will be highly considered.
• Addressing social ills: Projects that provide a platform for artistic expression to the voiceless as well as help with alleviating social ills such as xenophobia, gender-based violence and other violent crimes, drug abuse and gangsterism will be highly considered.
• Supporting vulnerable groups: Projects that provide employment opportunities for women, people living with disabilities and in rural areas will be highly considered.
• New works and digital arts: Projects that are innovative and introduce new arts through digital artistic presentations as well as other platforms, will be highly considered.

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 maximum amount applied for should not be more than R500 000 (about $26 000). The maximum threshold for only musical theatre productions is R800 000. The allocation will be in line with the redress and transformation imperatives of the NAC.

Applications must be submitted on or before 30 June. Applicants need to register and complete the online application form using the link here. Manual applications can be requested via email at [email protected]. This service is reserved only for those that lack access to internet services.

Note: Late and incomplete applications will not be considered, and no exceptions will be made. Funding guidelines can be downloaded via the NAC official website. Email [email protected] or call 087 7000 683. The NAC reserves the right to allocate funds according to its priorities. No applicant is automatically entitled to funding. All funding is at the discretion of the NAC.

View the original call here.