Call for Applications: Deloitte Photo Grant Program

Deadline: 14-Jun-2026

The Deloitte Photo Grant Program 2026 invites photographers under the age of 35 to submit an original photography project idea based on the theme “Proximities.” The winner will receive €25,000 to develop the project, plus exhibition opportunities, international visibility, and covered travel and accommodation in Milan.

What is the Deloitte Photo Grant Program 2026?

The Deloitte Photo Grant Program 2026 is an opportunity for young photographers to propose an original visual project exploring the theme of human connection, distance, and social relationships in the modern world.

The program supports emerging photographic talent and offers both financial support and international exposure.

Theme for 2026: “Proximities”

The 2026 theme is “Proximities.”

This theme invites photographers to explore new forms of distance and closeness in contemporary life.

The concept includes:

• Physical distance

• Economic polarization

• Technological mediation

• Social fragmentation

• The impact of screens and fast-paced lifestyles

• Everyday micro-relationships and human connection

Applicants are encouraged to use photography to show:

• How people inhabit space

• How communities interact or disconnect

• What still binds people together

• How photography can make proximity and distance visible

Award and Benefits

The selected winner will receive:

• €25,000 cash award to realize the project

• A mention in the exhibition scheduled for October 2026 at the Milan Triennale

• The opportunity to present the completed work in an exhibition during the 2027 edition of the Grant

• National and international press visibility

• Travel and accommodation in Milan covered by the Grant

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must be:

• Photographers under the age of 35

• Able to submit an original project idea

• Willing to create work connected to the “Proximities” theme

What Kind of Project Should You Submit?

Applicants should submit:

• An original photography project concept

• A proposal that responds directly to “Proximities”

• A project that reflects on:

  • Human relationships

  • Social distance

  • Contemporary communities

  • Visual storytelling around connection and separation

Projects will be reviewed by:

• A jury of international professionals

Why This Opportunity Matters

This program is valuable because it offers more than just prize money.

It gives young photographers:

• Major financial support

• A chance to develop a new body of work

• Exhibition exposure in Milan

• Access to international visibility

• Recognition from a professional jury

How to Apply

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Make sure you:

• Are a photographer under 35

• Have an original idea

• Can align your concept with the 2026 theme

Step 2: Develop a Strong Concept

Your proposal should clearly explain:

• Your interpretation of “Proximities”

• The story or issue you want to explore

• Why the topic matters now

• Your visual approach

Step 3: Show Artistic Relevance

A strong application should demonstrate:

• Conceptual clarity

• Originality

• Social or cultural relevance

• A clear photographic language

Step 4: Submit for Jury Review

Projects will be evaluated by an international jury, so make sure the concept is:

• Clear

• Focused

• Visually compelling

• Strongly tied to the theme

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors:

• Submitting a concept unrelated to “Proximities”

• Sending a vague or overly broad project idea

• Failing to explain the social or emotional relevance

• Not showing how photography is central to the concept

• Ignoring the age requirement

FAQs

1. Who can apply for the Deloitte Photo Grant Program 2026?

The program is open to photographers under the age of 35.

2. What is the 2026 theme?

The 2026 theme is “Proximities.”

3. How much funding does the winner receive?

The winner receives a €25,000 cash award to realize the project.

4. Is there an exhibition opportunity?

Yes. The winner will be mentioned in the October 2026 exhibition at the Milan Triennale and will present the completed work during the 2027 edition of the Grant.

5. Are travel costs covered?

Yes. Travel and accommodation in Milan will be covered by the Grant.

6. Who selects the winner?

Submitted works will be reviewed and selected by a jury of international professionals.

Conclusion

The Deloitte Photo Grant Program 2026 is a major opportunity for emerging photographers under 35 to develop an original project around the theme “Proximities.”

With a €25,000 award, exhibition opportunities, and strong international visibility, it is an excellent platform for photographers exploring the changing nature of human connection, distance, and contemporary society.

For more information, visit Deloitte.