Request for Proposals: Working Grants Program (Germany)

Deadline: 08-Jun-2026

The Saxony-Anhalt Art Foundation Working Grants Program supports freelance artists in Saxony-Anhalt to pursue innovative and original artistic projects across fine arts, performing arts, literature, music, design, media, and interdisciplinary fields. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs, with scholarships of €1,500 per month available for three to six months, extendable to twelve months. Applications are open to self-employed artists with projects that have not yet begun, emphasizing originality, public engagement, and supra-regional or international visibility.

Program Overview

The Working Grants Program aims to promote individual artistic achievements and foster innovation within the Saxony-Anhalt art scene. The initiative supports:

• Development of outstanding and original art projects

• Initiation of artist-driven projects suitable for promoting creation and visibility

• Public presentation of Saxony-Anhalt’s cultural and artistic contributions

• Medium- to long-term program formulation for sustained artistic growth

Eligible projects span multiple disciplines, including:

• Fine and applied arts

• Artistic photography

• Performing arts

• Literature and music

• Film and media art

• Design, architecture, and interdisciplinary fields

Who Is Eligible?

• Freelance artists whose primary residence is in Saxony-Anhalt

• Applicants must be self-employed with artistic activity as their main source of income

• School pupils, students, and individuals in vocational training are not eligible

• Projects must not yet have begun unless early commencement is formally approved

• Applicants cannot receive funding from other institutions during the grant period

Funding Details

• Partial funding: Up to 50% of total project costs

• Full funding: Possible for smaller projects costing up to €5,000

• Acquisition projects: Up to 80% for contemporary art by public legal entities

• Work scholarships: €1,500 per month for three to six months, extendable to 12 months upon reapplication

• Publication support: Fixed-amount grants for artist catalogues, literary works, music recordings, websites, and catalogues raisonnés

Funding exclusions include:

• Institutional support and general cultural projects

• Scientific works outside specific catalogues

• Educational or training measures

• Investment projects or commercially-driven initiatives

Application Requirements

Applications differ depending on funding type:

1. Work Scholarship Applications:

• Personal details of the artist

• Detailed project description

• Work samples (artistic portfolio)

• Proposed work location and collaborators (if applicable)

2. Project Funding Applications:

• Comprehensive project description and implementation plan

• Conditions for public reception and visibility

• Detailed financing plan including costs, revenue, and other sponsor contributions

• Ensure projects are original and not previously started without approval

Submission Guidelines:

• Paper applications accepted until full transition to the digital portal

• Email submissions are not allowed

• Funding not claimed within 12 months of approval reverts to the foundation’s budget

Why It Matters

The program strengthens Saxony-Anhalt’s cultural landscape by supporting innovative artistic creation, encouraging supra-regional and international visibility, and facilitating engagement with public audiences and communities. By offering structured financial and developmental support, the program allows artists to focus on experimentation, originality, and artistic excellence.

How to Apply / Steps to Follow

1. Confirm eligibility (freelance status, residency in Saxony-Anhalt, no concurrent funding)

2. Determine grant type (Work Scholarship or Project Funding)

3. Prepare required documents: project description, work samples, collaborators, financing plan

4. Submit paper application until the digital portal is operational

5. Await evaluation and funding decision

6. Ensure project commences as planned, and submit work reports if required

Tips for Applicants

• Highlight originality, experimental approaches, and public engagement

• Ensure financing plans are realistic and detailed

• Include supporting documents for collaborations and work locations

• Consider applying for work scholarships and project grants separately if eligible

• Submit applications early to allow time for review and approval

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for a Working Grant?
Freelance artists residing in Saxony-Anhalt with self-employment as their main income source.

2. Which disciplines are supported?
Fine and applied arts, photography, performing arts, literature, music, film, design, architecture, media art, and interdisciplinary projects.

3. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to 50% of project costs (full funding possible for projects ≤ €5,000).

4. Can I apply if I am a student or trainee?
No, only self-employed artists outside formal education or vocational training are eligible.

5. Are projects already in progress eligible?
Only with formal approval for early commencement; otherwise, projects must not have started.

6. How are work scholarships structured?
€1,500 per month for three to six months, extendable to twelve months.

7. What is required for project funding applications?
Detailed project description, implementation plan, financing plan, and information on reception, visibility, and collaborators.

Conclusion

The Working Grants Program by the Saxony-Anhalt Art Foundation provides essential support for freelance artists to advance their careers, develop innovative projects, and contribute to the region’s artistic and cultural visibility. With structured funding, work scholarships, and publication support, the program empowers artists to focus on creativity, originality, and public engagement.

For more information, visit The Saxony-Anhalt Art Foundation.