RFPs: Project Funding for Collaborations Across the Nordic Region

Deadline: 13-Feb-2026

The Nordic Culture Fund Project Funding 2026 supports collaborative arts and cultural projects across the Nordic countries, including Denmark, Finland, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Åland. Grants of up to DKK 500,000 are available for projects demonstrating innovation, development, and strong Nordic cooperation, with at least 50% co-financing required.

The Nordic Culture Fund invites applications for its Project Funding, aimed at stimulating the arts and cultural life in the Nordic region through collaborative initiatives. The programme targets projects that strengthen Nordic cooperation, foster artistic development, and build sustainable cultural networks.

Objectives

The Project Funding programme seeks to:

• Promote artistic and cultural development across the Nordic countries

• Support collaborative initiatives with actors from multiple Nordic nations

• Encourage innovation and new approaches in arts and culture

• Strengthen Nordic networks and long-term partnerships

Eligibility

Applicants may include:

• Artists and cultural players

• Public and private organisations

• Associations, both Nordic and non-Nordic

• Projects must involve actors from at least two Nordic countries, with a focus on collaboration and shared development

Important criteria:

• Minimum 50% co-financing

• Maximum grant of DKK 500,000 (most awards below DKK 300,000)

• Project must demonstrate innovation and development beyond previously completed projects

• Projects can build on existing networks or past initiatives if they include clear development and innovation

Eligible Project Activities

• Development and establishment of artistic or cultural initiatives

• Building Nordic cooperation and networks

• Activities that strengthen artistic or cultural content across countries

Ineligible activities include:

• Projects without a clear link to arts or culture

• Individual projects, working scholarships, or education/study visits

• Participation in events, tours, or exhibitions without substantial Nordic collaboration

• Operating costs, organizational base financing, construction, technical equipment procurement

• Publishing or production if primary purpose

Funding Details

• Grant amount: Up to DKK 500,000

• Co-financing requirement: Minimum 50%

• Project period: Maximum of three years (year of grant + 2 subsequent years)

• Currency: Budgets must be in Danish krone (DKK)

• Project start: Activities may only commence after the Fund’s decision

Budget must include:

• Partner investments

• Confirmed or requested external funding

• Calculated value of services (e.g., volunteer time)

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility and collaborative scope across Nordic countries

2. Develop a project proposal outlining artistic/cultural content, Nordic relevance, and collaboration strategy

3. Prepare a budget using the Fund’s template with balanced income and expenses

4. Submit the application electronically via the Fund’s portal

5. Ensure the proposal demonstrates innovation, development, and strong Nordic cooperation

Deadline: February 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET

Assessment Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Artistic or cultural quality and ambitions

• Nordic relevance and level of collaboration

• Realistic and relevant project economy

• Innovation and developmental impact

• Collaboration must involve more than two Nordic countries to demonstrate a broad Nordic dimension

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a project with weak Nordic collaboration

• Failing to provide 50% co-financing

• Budget not structured in DKK or missing balanced income/expenses

• Proposing activities outside the artistic or cultural scope

• Beginning project activities before grant approval

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply for Project Funding?

Artists, cultural players, public and private organizations, and associations from Nordic and non-Nordic countries with strong Nordic collaboration.

What is the maximum grant amount?

Up to DKK 500,000, with most projects funded below DKK 300,000.

Is co-financing required?

Yes, at least 50% of the total project budget must come from other sources.

Can a project build on previous initiatives?

Yes, provided it demonstrates innovation and development beyond previous work.

Are individual or scholarship projects eligible?

No, individual projects, working scholarships, and study visits are not eligible.

How long can the project period be?

Up to three years: the year of the grant plus two subsequent calendar years.

Can I apply again if rejected?

Yes, reapplications are allowed for the same project.

Conclusion

The Nordic Culture Fund Project Funding 2026 offers a unique opportunity to develop innovative arts and cultural projects that strengthen Nordic cooperation and build sustainable networks. By supporting projects with strong collaboration, co-financing, and creative development, the Fund encourages lasting impact on the Nordic cultural landscape.

For more information, visit Nordic Culture Fund.