The UAE Ministry of Culture & Youth launches the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity to support creatives with funding

The UAE Ministry of Culture & Youthannounced the launch of the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity to further strengthen the UAE’s commitment to its cultural and creative sectors, leveraging opportunities to invest in creative professionals who play an integral role in the nation’s collective efforts towards building a sustainable creative economy for future generations.

The program aims to assist UAE talent with funding towards developing projects that contribute to their creative, intellectual and professional growth, while enhancing visibility of the nation’s cultural and creative industries across regional and international platforms. The open call for applications will officially begin from the 3rd of August 2023. 

His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Youth said: "Today marks yet another significant step towards proliferating awareness, and developing the skills and capabilities of the creative talent that exists among UAE Nationals on a local and global scale. The National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity embodies the Ministry’s vision and the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries by exemplifying the UAE's unwavering commitment to increasing the socioeconomic impact and value of our cultural and creative product, as we provide talent with support that will help bring their creative and intellectual ideas to life. 

In line with the UAE’s vision and leadership, the Ministry of Culture & Youth acknowledges the significant role individuals play in driving these sectors while preserving the UAE’s National identity and heritage.” His Excellency added. 

This new grant program focuses on funding projects and opportunities that fall within seven main fields which include: Books and Literature, Music, Film and TV, Performing Arts and Theatre, Visual Arts and Design, Video Games and Cultural Heritage. With such backing, creatives stand a chance at further amplifying their work to local, regional, and international audiences, subsequently advancing the visibility of the UAE’s collective talent and cultural product.

The National Grants Program for Culture and Creativity offers grants in four categories, catering to the specific needs of creatives:

• Creation and Production Grant (Up to AED 100,000): This grant is designed to finance the production of new and original artistic and creative works across various mediums, such as film, music, performances, and video games. It supports projects that demonstrate artistic excellence, creative appeal, and a unique vision or concept.

• Distribution and Local Participations Grant (Up to AED 80,000): This grant supports the promotion, distribution, and publication of creative projects to increase visibility for locally produced artworks and creative projects. It also aims to encourage creatives to take part in local opportunities and events through supporting associated participation costs. 

• Capacity Development Grant (Up to AED 50,000): This grant aims to support the professional growth of applicants by supporting unique learning opportunities that upskill and enhance creatives’ skills and talent through opportunities such as short-courses, residencies, specialized training from recognized institutions, and similar development opportunities. 

• International Travel and Mobility Grant (Up to AED 50,000):  This grant supports creatives to participate in international events and opportunities by funding costs of travel, accommodation, and participation to represent the UAE on global platforms. It aims to increase the global presence of the UAE’s creative sector and can cover associated fees for participation in festivals, exhibitions, international collaborations, and more. 

UAE National creatives are encouraged to apply to the first cycle of the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity through the Ministry’s website which opens from 3rd to 31st August 2023.