Deadline: 01-Jun-2026
The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is inviting applications for the 2026–2027 National Lottery Project Funding Programme to support arts projects that increase community participation, audience engagement, artistic innovation, and accessibility across Northern Ireland.
The programme offers grants ranging from £10,001 to £75,000 for arts activities lasting up to one year, with special emphasis on inclusion, rural arts programming, youth participation, and support for underrepresented artists and communities.
About the Programme
The funding programme supports arts projects that benefit communities across Northern Ireland while reflecting the diversity of society and culture.
The initiative focuses on:
- Community arts development
- Audience engagement
- Artistic innovation
- Diversity and inclusion
- Youth participation
- Rural arts programming
- Artist development
- Mental health and well-being
- Sustainable development
- Accessibility and inclusion
- Digital arts engagement
- Touring and exhibitions
- Research and development
The programme encourages high-quality arts projects involving:
- Children and young people
- Older people
- Disabled participants
- Diverse communities
Priority Areas
Special emphasis is placed on projects supporting:
- Minority Ethnic artists
- D/deaf artists
- Neurodiverse and disabled artists
- Emerging artists
- Working-class artists
- LGBTQIA artists
- Rural communities across Northern Ireland
The programme also encourages innovative and original work by Northern Ireland artists across all artforms.
What Activities Can Be Funded?
Eligible activities may include:
- Arts projects and events
- Mentoring and workforce development
- New productions and commissions
- Touring programmes
- Exhibitions
- Audience development initiatives
- Mental health and well-being projects
- Environmentally sustainable activities
- Research and development
- Digital performances and broadcasts
- Accessibility support costs
Funding may also support:
- Sign language interpretation
- Braille materials
- Transport and carer support
- Website and digital platform development
- Essential project-related equipment
- Continuation of existing arts or administrative salaries
Projects can last for up to one year.
Grant Amount
Funding available:
- Minimum grant: £10,001
- Maximum grant: £75,000
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered charities
- Non-profit organisations
- Local authorities
- Public sector agencies
- Commercial organisations working for public benefit
- Consortia delivering joint projects
Schools, colleges, universities, and membership-based organisations may also apply if they demonstrate wider public benefit.
Organisations outside Northern Ireland can apply if they show significant benefit to people in Northern Ireland.
Applicants must:
- Provide proof of legal constitution
- Submit at least one year of full accounts
Why This Programme Matters
The initiative supports the growth of inclusive and accessible arts programming across Northern Ireland.
The programme aims to:
- Expand arts access for diverse audiences
- Strengthen community participation
- Support underrepresented artists
- Encourage creative innovation
- Improve accessibility in the arts
- Promote rural cultural engagement
- Support artist development and sustainability
Tips for Applicants
Strong applications should:
- Demonstrate clear public benefit
- Highlight community engagement
- Show strong inclusion and accessibility plans
- Explain artistic quality and innovation
- Present realistic budgets and delivery plans
- Demonstrate benefits for Northern Ireland communities
Avoid:
- Weak audience engagement strategies
- Unclear project outcomes
- Limited accessibility planning
- Incomplete financial documentation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is offering the funding?
The programme is offered by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
How much funding is available?
Grants range from £10,001 to £75,000.
What types of projects are supported?
The programme supports arts projects, exhibitions, touring, digital engagement, artist development, accessibility initiatives, and community arts activities.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include charities, non-profits, public sector organisations, commercial organisations working for public benefit, and consortia.
Can organisations outside Northern Ireland apply?
Yes. Organisations outside Northern Ireland may apply if the project significantly benefits people in Northern Ireland.
Are accessibility costs eligible?
Yes. Accessibility-related costs such as sign language interpretation, Braille materials, transport, and carer support can be funded.
Conclusion
The 2026–2027 National Lottery Project Funding Programme provides major support for arts organisations delivering inclusive, innovative, and community-focused arts activities across Northern Ireland. Through grants of up to £75,000, the initiative aims to strengthen artistic development, improve accessibility, and expand participation for diverse and underrepresented communities.
For more information, visit Arts Council of Northern Ireland.