The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) has announced its Annual Project Funding Call for the 2026-2027 financial year, inviting applications from individual arts practitioners, registered arts organisations, and community art centres. Each applicant, whether an individual or organisation, may submit only one proposal for consideration.
The call is open to practitioners in craft, dance, literature, music, theatre and musical theatre, visual arts, and multidiscipline arts. Projects that incorporate South African indigenous art forms and initiatives promoting intellectual property capacity building are particularly encouraged. Proposed projects must address at least two of the NAC’s six critical focus areas, including fostering social cohesion, promoting marginalised and indigenous arts, addressing social issues, supporting vulnerable groups, encouraging innovation and digital arts, and developing skills and arts entrepreneurship.
Applications must demonstrate potential impact and value for communities, highlighting the ability to educate, entertain, and inspire audiences. Projects that uplift rural communities, create employment opportunities for women and persons with disabilities, or introduce innovative digital arts initiatives will be highly considered. The maximum funding available per project is R350,000, and allocations will reflect the NAC’s priorities for redress and transformation.
Applicants must submit their proposals by 13 March 2026 at 23:59. The NAC reserves discretion over funding decisions, and no applicant is automatically guaranteed support. Advisory panel members and council members of the NAC are not eligible to apply during their term of office.
Projects involving children or persons with disabilities must include safeguards, such as police clearance certificates, parental consent, or evidence of relevant skills and experience. Failure to provide required documentation may lead to disqualification or negative assessment. Applicants who do not comply with the funding guidelines will receive Non-Compliance Decline Letters prior to the official outcome date, with contact information for Arts Development Officers to provide further guidance.
