Deadline: 12-Apr-2026
The Elephant Trust provides grants of £2,000–£5,000 to support artists and small UK-based arts organisations in creating and producing new, imaginative work or exhibitions. Priority is given to projects demonstrating originality and a clear vision, with a total project budget not exceeding £30,000.
Overview
The Elephant Trust offers financial support to individual artists and small organisations for the production of new artistic work. Its main goal is to foster originality and innovation in the contemporary arts landscape.
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Focus: Fine arts and small galleries
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Grant size: £2,000–£5,000
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Maximum project budget: £30,000
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Reapplication: Successful applicants must wait two years before applying again
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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UK-based individual artists in the fine arts
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Small arts organisations or galleries producing new work or exhibitions
Ineligible applicants or projects:
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Arts festivals, group exhibitions, or community projects
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Students, educational projects, residencies, research, symposia, or conferences
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Theatres or catalogues
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Projects outside the UK
What the Trust Supports
The Elephant Trust prioritises projects that:
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Demonstrate originality and creative vision
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Focus on the creation or production of new work
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Contribute meaningfully to the contemporary arts landscape
The grants, though modest, can be crucial for artists and small galleries to realise innovative projects that may not otherwise find funding.
How to Apply / What to Do
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Prepare an imaginative proposal
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Clearly outline the project or exhibition idea
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Emphasise originality and creative vision
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Budget planning
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Ensure your total project cost does not exceed £30,000
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Request between £2,000–£5,000
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Demonstrate impact
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Show how the project contributes to contemporary arts
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Include any supporting materials, sketches, or examples of past work
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Check eligibility
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Confirm the project is UK-based and not among ineligible categories
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Ensure you have not received a grant from the Trust in the last two years
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Tips for a Strong Application
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Focus on new and original work
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Highlight your vision and creative approach
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Keep budgets realistic and clear
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Provide evidence of past work or achievements
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Avoid applying for projects outside the Trust’s scope
FAQs
1. What is the typical grant amount?
Grants range from £2,000 to £5,000.
2. Who can apply?
Individual UK-based artists in the fine arts and small UK organisations or galleries.
3. What is the maximum project budget?
Total project costs should not exceed £30,000.
4. Can I reapply if I previously received a grant?
Yes, but applicants must wait at least two years before applying again.
5. Can international artists or projects outside the UK apply?
No, only UK-based projects are eligible.
6. What types of projects are not funded?
Festivals, group exhibitions, community projects, students’ work, residencies, research, catalogues, symposia, conferences, or theatre productions.
7. What is the main focus of the Trust?
Supporting original artistic practice and enabling new work that brings fresh ideas to life.
Conclusion
The Elephant Trust provides vital support to UK artists and small galleries seeking to create original, innovative work or exhibitions. With grants up to £5,000, it helps bring fresh ideas in contemporary arts to life and fosters projects that make a meaningful impact.
For more information, visit The Elephant Trust.
