Grants and funds
Finding and applying for grants and funds: this is how to make your cultural plan feasible.
Would you like to apply for a subsidy or fund for your cultural initiative, but don't know where to start? On this page we clearly explain what subsidies and funds are, how to make a good application, and what to look out for. You will also find out which funds you can apply for directly through Cultuur Academy .
What are grants?
Grants are financial contributions from the government to initiatives that contribute to social goals. Think of themes such as culture, sustainability, education or urban development. Governments use grants to stimulate developments that fit their policies and economic ambitions. The conditions, amounts and application procedures differ per subsidy. A well-founded plan that responds to current themes and shows cultural entrepreneurship - for example, through co-financing - stands a better chance of being awarded. Read more tips on applying for grants here.
What are funds?
Funds are financial contributions from (mostly) private organizations that support specific social or cultural causes. Think of foundations, charities or wealthy individuals who want to use a fund to enable projects on themes they consider important, such as art, heritage, education or social inclusion. Sometimes funds are (partly) financed with public money, or set up by companies that want to be socially engaged. Each fund has its own criteria, practices and deadlines. Unlike grants, funds often allow you to apply on an ongoing basis, as long as your plan aligns well with their goals. Read tips for applying for funds here.
Overview of grants and funds
Discover an overview of grants and funds for cultural projects. There are opportunities for a variety of topics, so chances are good that there is a scheme to suit your initiative.
Applying in five steps
Applying for a grant or fund sounds simple, but it requires good preparation and a clear approach. Below you will read in five clear steps what to look out for and how best to approach your application.
- Step 1: Work out your idea. What do you want to do, for whom, and why is it relevant? Put your plan on paper and make sure it is clear, achievable and distinctive.
- Step 2: Prepare a realistic budget including a coverage plan. Show what your project will cost, what income you expect and what portion you plan to cover with a grant or fund . Often you will also have to contribute or demonstrate other sources of funding yourself (co-financing).
- Step 3: Choose the right scheme. Find a grant or fund that fits your initiative and carefully check the terms and conditions: who may apply, what costs are allowed, what are the minimum and maximum amounts, and what is the deadline?
- Step 4: Gather your documents. Each scheme requires different documents: usually a project plan, budget, communication plan and CoC extract. Sometimes financial statements, articles of incorporation or resumes of board members are also requested. Start on time and gather everything well before the deadline.
- Step 5: Submit your application on time and in full. Often this is done digitally via a form. Make sure your application is complete. Incomplete or late applications are usually rejected immediately. With a clear approach and good preparation, you significantly increase your chances of being awarded.
Grant deadlines June through December 2025
We have listed the deadlines of many funds and grants within the cultural sector for you. Take a look now and prepare your application!
💡 Tip: Always check if your project falls within the set period. Also check the minimum and maximum amount as well as what costs you may or may not cover - your own hours are not always included.
Cultuur Academy funds
Did you know that as a creator, artist or performer, you can also apply directly with Cultuur Academy ? We have several funds specially set up to help you in an accessible way. Whether you want to experiment, grow or need support with fundraising: we are happy to think along with you. No complicated procedures, but room for good ideas. Discover below which fund suits you best.
The Groeispurt (Nijmegen): Rapid and flexible grant for artistic experimentation and development. Aimed at emerging talent seeking room to grow.
The Stroomversneller (Arnhem): Arnhem counterpart of the Groeispurt - again, artistic growth and experimentation are the focus, without unnecessary obligations.
Night Pulse (Nijmegen): Especially for nightlife initiatives. From experimentation to talent development - Nachtpulse gives the night a creative boost.
The Firestarter: Interest-free loan up to €2500 to hire a fundraiser. Ideal if you need help with your application or project plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Basic Fundraising Course
Do you have an idea for an event, artwork or cultural project and want to get started with funding? Then our Fundraising Basic Course is a good place to start. The course is designed for anyone who has a good idea, but is not yet sure how to apply for funding or which fund to turn to.
Funding
How do you fund a cultural project? On the Cultuur Academy knowledge base we show you step by step how to go about it. The structure of these pages follows the logical order in which cultural projects arise: from first idea to execution - and beyond. You start with concept development, work on a realistic budget, research funding sources, learn to justify and think about the future.
Marketing and communications
Marketing and communications is at its core about reaching your audience. Because no matter what you make or what service you provide as an artist or cultural organization, without an audience you are nowhere. But how do you figure out who your audience is and how to reach them?
Accessibility
Events should be able to be attended by everyone, including visitors with disabilities. But as an organizer, how do you make sure your event or festival is accessible? How do you remove barriers and obstacles for visitors with disabilities, and make sure they can experience your event well? On this theme page, event organizers will find information on how to make their event accessible.