RFPs: Travel Grants for Curatorial Research (Germany)

The Goethe-Institut Travel Grant Program provides partial funding of up to €5,000 for curators to conduct research abroad that contributes to exhibitions or related events in Germany. The program supports travel and accommodation costs while enabling networking with international art institutions and professionals.

Program Overview

The Goethe-Institut Travel Grant Program is designed to help curators enhance their knowledge of contemporary art, engage with international art scenes, and develop projects that will be realized in Germany. The program emphasizes research that leads to exhibitions, publications, or related events within Germany.

Funding Details

• Maximum Grant: €5,000 per research trip

• Covered Costs: Travel and accommodation

• Excluded Costs: Material costs, fees for existing projects, academic research trips, residencies, or guest lectures

• Renewal: Grant can be applied for again only after three years

Eligibility

• Professional curators planning research abroad

• Projects must aim to contribute to exhibitions or related events in Germany

• Applicants are encouraged to contact Goethe-Institut offices abroad in advance to explore possible collaborations

How It Works

1. Plan the Research Trip:

   • Identify destinations, institutions, and contacts relevant to your exhibition or event project in Germany

   • Clarify the contribution of your research to the upcoming exhibition/event

2. Prepare the Application:

   • Enter basic personal and project details in the Goethe-Institut online portal

   • Submit a single PDF including:

     • Brief CV

     • Detailed project description with cost breakdown

     • Comprehensive travel plan specifying destinations, institutions, and people to be visited

   • Optional: Upload partner confirmations or links to past work

3. Funding and Reporting:

   • Upon approval, funding is disbursed to cover travel and accommodation

   • After the trip, submit proof of travel (tickets, receipts) and a brief report within two months

   • Acknowledge Goethe-Institut’s patronage in any resulting exhibitions, publications, or projects

Key Dates

• Application Open: Mid-November to Mid-January annually

• Deadline for 2026 Trips: January 15, 2026

• Results Announcement: Mid-February 2026

• Trip Requirement: Research trips must begin within the same calendar year

Tips for Applicants

• Contact Goethe-Institut abroad before the trip to explore collaboration opportunities

• Provide a clear and realistic budget and travel plan

• Ensure the research is directly linked to a future exhibition or event in Germany

• Maintain detailed documentation to facilitate reporting after completion

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for the Travel Grant?
   Professional curators planning research abroad for exhibitions or related events in Germany.

2. What costs are covered?
   Travel and accommodation only. Material costs, fees, and academic research are not funded.

3. How much funding can be requested?
   Up to €5,000 per research trip.

4. When is the application deadline for 2026 trips?
   January 15, 2026.

5. Can I apply for a grant again immediately after completing a funded trip?
   No, renewed funding is possible only after three years.

6. What documentation is required after the trip?
   Tickets, hotel receipts, and a brief report within two months.

7. Do I need to acknowledge Goethe-Institut support?
   Yes, include the Goethe-Institut’s logo and patronage in all resulting exhibitions, publications, or projects.

Conclusion

The Goethe-Institut Travel Grant Program provides curators with financial support, international exposure, and networking opportunities to develop research that contributes to high-quality exhibitions and cultural events in Germany. By combining funding, mentorship, and access to global art networks, the program strengthens the professional expertise and international impact of participating curators.