Performing Arts: International Activities Grant Programme (Denmark)

The Danish Arts Foundation’s Performing Arts: International Activities Grant Programme provides funding of up to DKK 100,000 for small theatres, performing arts groups, and independent artists pursuing international touring, collaborations, residencies, and research. The programme supports innovative performing arts projects that build long-term international partnerships and strengthen Denmark’s global artistic exchange. Applications are assessed based on artistic quality, originality, societal relevance, and audience impact.

Overview

The Performing Arts: International Activities Grant Programme supports Danish and Denmark-based performing artists and organizations seeking to expand their work internationally. The program funds touring, guest performances, international residencies, creative collaborations, and research activities that enhance cultural exchange and long-term artistic partnerships.

Why It Matters

• Strengthens Denmark’s presence in the global performing arts ecosystem.

• Encourages innovative and boundary-pushing artistic work.

• Enables international touring, co-production, and audience development.

• Supports sustainable, long-term collaborations with foreign partners.

• Expands opportunities for independent artists and smaller performing arts groups.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Small theatres and performing arts venues

• Independent performing arts groups

• Individual performing artists

• Arts organizations operating in the performing arts sector
  Not eligible:

• Large institutional theatres, including: The Royal Danish Theatre, Danish regional theatres, Jutland Opera, and theatres in the Copenhagen theatre association

What the Grant Supports

The programme funds a wide range of international performing arts activities, including:

• Guest performances and international touring

• Site-specific performances adapting an existing concept to a new context

• Networking and research for long-term collaborations

• Co-productions with international partners

• International workshops, master classes, and speaker participation

• Invitations to international guests for performances in Denmark

• International residencies

Funding Amount

• Maximum grant: DKK 100,000 (increased from DKK 75,000)

Activities Not Eligible

• Projects initiated before the deadline

• Educational activities for individuals

• Production of new performances

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Artistic quality of the work and demonstrated talent

• Originality and innovation in form, content, or format

• Clarity of artistic idea and feasibility

• Societal relevance and cultural impact

• Audience experience and potential to reach new audiences

• Collaboration potential, including co-productions and partnerships

• Efficient use of artistic and financial resources

• Long-term potential: touring, development, future partnerships

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Access the Grant Portal and log in using MitID.

2. Prepare your project description including:

   • Artistic vision and main idea

   • Methods of realization

   • Group structure or organizational setup

   • Audience relevance and target groups

3. Prepare the required attachments:

   • Budget and activity/goals specification

   • CVs of all participants

   • Documentation of agreements with international partners

   • Bank information form (for foreign accounts)

   • Up to three optional links to relevant materials

4. Submit the application through the Grant Portal. Ensure the final version uploaded is complete.

5. Await decision (within 12 weeks). Decisions appear in the Grant Portal, and awarded grants are later published on the Foundation’s website.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete applications or missing required documents

• Including ineligible expenses such as education or production costs

• Applying with projects involving large institutional theatres

• Failing to provide verified international partner agreements

• Not demonstrating artistic clarity or audience relevance

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to DKK 100,000 per project.
2. Can I apply if my project has already started?
No. Activities initiated before the deadline are not eligible.
3. Are large theatres eligible?
No. Large institutional theatres such as The Royal Danish Theatre and regional theatres cannot receive support.
4. What types of international activities qualify?
Touring, guest performances, co-productions, residencies, workshops, networking, and research-based collaboration.
5. How long does it take to receive a decision?
Applicants receive a decision within 12 weeks after the deadline.
6. Can individuals apply?
Yes. Independent performing artists may apply.
7. Do I need confirmed international partners?
Yes. Agreements or documented interest from partners are required.

Conclusion

The Danish Arts Foundation’s International Activities Grant Programme empowers independent artists and small performing arts organizations to expand their work globally. With support for touring, collaboration, and innovative artistic exchange, the grant strengthens Denmark’s cultural footprint while helping artists build sustainable international careers.