Deadline: 14-Aug-2025
The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is inviting applications for the National Lottery Artists’ International Development Fund Programme. This initiative aims to support early-stage international development opportunities for artists and organizations based in Northern Ireland. It is jointly funded by the British Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and is open to individual, freelance, and self-employed artists as well as organizations.
The programme seeks to strengthen Northern Ireland’s artistic presence on the global stage. It encourages collaborations between individual artists—whether in single artforms or cross-disciplinary projects. Collaborative applications must name a lead applicant who will manage the grant, and provide information on all involved artists’ practices.
Grants range from £1,000 to £7,000. The funding can support activities such as international collaboration, residencies, the development of international audiences, and building long-term relationships with creative partners abroad. Eligible expenses include art materials, travel, production costs, artistic fees, and equipment (with certain cost limits on IT items).
However, several types of projects and expenses are ineligible. These include projects that begin before a funding decision is made, academic studies and related costs, general living expenses, translations, fashion design, most media or film projects, scriptwriting, and activities that are not primarily artistic. Projects already receiving ACNI funding or duplicated by other funders are also excluded.
Artists working in any discipline can apply, including curators, editors, and creative producers. Emerging artists—those developing their artistic voice and professional standing—are especially encouraged. Practicing artists who are students or academics may apply, but they must demonstrate that their proposed project is independent of their academic work and supported by documentation from their institution.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, not in secondary education, and have contributed to the arts in Northern Ireland for at least one year within the past five years. They must also currently reside in Northern Ireland, and those living elsewhere for most of the year are not eligible. In addition, applicants must not have violated terms of past ACNI awards or remain in breach of past agreements. Students applying for course-related work or tuition are ineligible. Small groups applying must prove a history of collaboration.
The programme offers a valuable opportunity for Northern Irish artists to grow internationally while building strong networks and recognition for their work.
For more information, visit ACNI.