The programme's second cycle will be accepting online applications until June 1, 2024.
The UAE’s Ministry of Culture has announced the opening of applications for the second cycle of the National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity (NGPCC), aimed at supporting Emirati creatives in their projects. Launched in 2023, this nationwide grant programme invites applications from various fields, including Books and Literature, Music, Film and TV, Performing Arts and Theatre, Visual Arts and Design, Video Games, and Cultural Heritage. The second cycle will accept online applications until June 1, 2024.
The NGPCC covers the cultural and creative industries, providing creatives with opportunities to showcase their work to local, regional, and international audiences. This initiative is designed to enhance the visibility of UAE talent and local cultural production.
At the heart of this programme is the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to developing a thriving creative ecosystem in the country. By fostering home-grown talent, advancing careers, and enabling the production of creative projects, the programme aims to help Emirati creatives overcome financial barriers and participate in opportunities.
The first cycle of the NGPCC was a success, awarding grants to 26 emerging and established Emirati creatives across various fields. Outcomes included short films, published books, theatre productions, a video game, and participation in international residencies, performances, and art fairs in Venice, Egypt, Latvia, and Poland.
Speaking about NGPCC, Salem bin Khaled Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, said: “The launch of the second cycle of the National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity illustrates the unwavering support of the Ministry of Culture for the UAE’s cultural and creative industries and promoting the UAE’s national identity and heritage. Building on the success of last year’s cycle, we would like to expand the programme’s reach and urge more creatives to come forward and submit their applications to benefit from this opportunity. By enabling talent through providing funding, we aim to enhance cultural production in the country and maximise exposure and presence for Emirati creatives locally, regionally and internationally while also enhancing the UAE’s position on the global cultural and creative map.”
This year, the programme invites artists, designers, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and other creative professionals to submit their proposals in four categories, including the Creation and Production Grant, Promotion and Local Participations Grant, Capacity Development Grant and International Travel and Mobility Grant.
The Creation and Production Grant (up to $27225.70) is designed to finance the production of new and original artistic and creative works across various mediums, such as film, music, performances, and video games. It supports projects that demonstrate artistic excellence, creative appeal, and a unique vision or concept.
The Promotion and Local Participations Grant (up to $21780.56) supports the promotion, distribution, and publication of creative projects, encouraging participation in local opportunities and events.
The Capacity Development Grant (up to $13612.85) aims to support professional growth through unique learning opportunities, including short courses, residencies, and specialised training.
The International Travel and Mobility Grant (up to $13612.85) funds travel, accommodation, and participation costs for international events, aiming to increase the global presence of the UAE’s creative sector.
The NGPCC continues to engage potential applicants through visits and virtual sessions with prominent universities, including Zayed University, Abu Dhabi University, New York University Abu Dhabi, American University of Sharjah, University of Khorfakkan, and United Arab Emirates University.
