NACN GRANTS CALL FOR FUNDING CYCLE (2026/2027)
The National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) recognizes the persistent funding gap within the creative and cultural industries. Which continues to limit the sector’s contribution to economic growth, employment creation, and social cohesion. In line with the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), the creative sector is recognized as a strategic area for inclusive development, youth empowerment, innovation, and the diversification of the economy. Despite this recognition, many artists and cultural practitioners remain under resourced, with limited access to sustainable financing and market opportunities. Against this backdrop, NACN remains committed to strengthening the creative ecosystem by providing targeted grant funding that enables artists to develop, produce, and present quality creative work through the annual grants cycle.
Through the distribution of funds, artists are encouraged to participate in the quarterly grant cycle for 2026/2027 financial year. Funding applications are invited across various disciplines, including studio based arts such as paintings, printmaking, sculpting, drawing; Participation in local, regional, and international events such as shows, expos, festivals; the organisation of events including fashion shows, exhibitions, theatre, dance and music performances; Arts-related capacity building workshops and training; Talent development initiatives; Participation in national flagship events and Arts-specific research that contribute to policy development, sector growth, and professionalization of the creative industries.
Applicants must have the capability to address at least four of the six (6) critical focus areas below:
- Social protection and research;
- Unearthing marginalized and indigenous arts in rural areas;
- Addressing social ills such as unemployment, and gender-based violence;
- Supporting the involvement of women, youth employment opportunities and people living with disabilities;
- Creation of new works through digital media; and
- Capacity Building and Arts Entrepreneurship.
Application forms for Grants are available from the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) Offices, at the Arts Extension Officers in the regions.
Opening for applications: 06 February 2026
Deadline for Applications: 06 March 2026 at 14h00
Calling all Namibian creatives
The National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) is offering grants to support your artistic endeavors. Funding is available for a variety of disciplines, including studio arts, participation in events, capacity- building workshops, and more. Artists are encouraged to apply if their work addresses one or more of the six critical focus areas outlined by the NACN, which include social issues, promoting the involvement of underrepresented groups, and artistic capacity building.
Deadline to apply, 06 March 2026 at 14h00
" Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. "
Thomas Merton
Our Services
Grant
Funding
We provide financial support to artists, cultural organizations, and community projects that promote Namibian arts and culture.
Bursaries for
Arts Education
We offer scholarships and bursaries to students pursuing studies in visual arts, performing arts, literature, and cultural management.
Support for
Arts Facilities
We fund the development, maintenance, and enhancement of cultural centers, galleries, theaters, and creative spaces across Namibia.
Partnerships
and Projects
We collaborate with local and international organizations to promote artistic exchange programs, festivals, and capacity-building initiatives.