Deadline: 12-Apr-2026
The Unconditional Trust: Impact Grant, launched by the Asia Art Archive (AAA) and Para Site, provides funding of up to US$10,000 per project to support artist-led collectives and independent arts organisations in Central Asia. The grant prioritises sustainable programming, organisational capacity-building, and professional development rather than direct artwork production, fostering stronger regional art ecosystems and cross-border collaboration.
Programme Overview
The Unconditional Trust: Impact Grant targets artist-led collectives and independent arts organisations in Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The initiative focuses on:
- Sustainable programming – long-term projects that strengthen organisational capacities
- Professional development – mentorship, skills-building, and training for arts practitioners
- Infrastructural building – expanding exhibition spaces, digitising archives, and enhancing facilities
- Knowledge sharing – symposiums, workshops, publications, and networking initiatives
Unlike traditional grants for artworks or exhibitions, this programme emphasises capacity-building, organisational growth, and ecosystem development.
Background
This grant builds on the previous edition in Indonesia, which supported multiple artists and collectives. The Central Asia edition continues the strategy of fostering long-term relationships, collaboration, and community strengthening while connecting practitioners with peers across Hong Kong and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
Funding Details
- Total funding pool: US$60,000
- Maximum grant per project: US$10,000
- Project duration: up to 2 years, beginning in 2026
- Funding supports organisational growth, programming, infrastructure, and knowledge exchange, not direct artwork or exhibitions
In addition to funding, grantees will receive tailored mentorship aligned with their developmental goals, supporting both immediate and long-term impact.
Who is Eligible?
- Artist-led collectives in Central Asia
- Independent arts organisations in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan
- Applicants must demonstrate capacity for sustainable organisational growth and contribution to the regional art ecosystem
How to Apply / How It Works
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your collective or organisation is based in Central Asia and aligns with the grant’s focus on organisational capacity.
- Project Planning: Develop initiatives centred on capacity-building, professional development, infrastructure, or knowledge sharing.
- Budget Preparation: Include detailed costs for all proposed activities; ensure alignment with grant objectives.
- Submit Proposal: Apply through the official AAA & Para Site application portal.
- Evaluation Process: Proposals are reviewed by a jury of established art professionals from the region and beyond.
- Project Implementation: Selected projects begin in 2026, with ongoing mentorship and support.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Alignment with grant objectives
- Potential impact on local art ecosystems
- Sustainability of the proposed project
- Feasibility and clarity of budget and project plan
- Opportunities for regional collaboration and knowledge sharing
Why This Grant Matters
- Strengthens local art ecosystems in Central Asia
- Supports capacity-building and organisational sustainability
- Encourages regional and cross-border collaboration
- Provides mentorship and long-term professional development
- Enhances knowledge exchange, networking, and visibility for emerging arts organisations
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for direct artwork or exhibition production, which is outside the grant scope
- Submitting proposals without clear capacity-building objectives
- Failing to demonstrate regional impact or potential collaboration
- Omitting detailed budget and project plans
- Neglecting to include mentorship or development needs in the proposal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Artist-led collectives and independent arts organisations in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
2. What types of projects are supported?
Capacity-building initiatives, sustainable programming, infrastructure development, knowledge sharing, publications, and regional networking activities.
3. What is the maximum funding per project?
Up to US$10,000 per project, from a total pool of US$60,000.
4. What is the project duration?
Projects may run for up to 2 years, starting in 2026.
5. Can funds be used for exhibitions or artwork creation?
No, the grant focuses on organisational and capacity-building initiatives, not direct artwork production.
6. Are mentorship opportunities included?
Yes, grantees receive tailored mentorship to support professional development and long-term impact.
7. How are applications evaluated?
By a jury of art professionals, considering project alignment, feasibility, sustainability, impact, and regional collaboration potential.
Conclusion
The Unconditional Trust: Impact Grant for Central Asia empowers artist-led collectives and independent arts organisations to strengthen their capacities, foster sustainable programming, and build regional networks. By focusing on organisational development and collaboration, the grant enhances the resilience and visibility of the Central Asian art ecosystem while connecting practitioners across the Asia-Pacific region.
For more information, visit AAA.
