New Arts Council NI Funding Opportunities for Theatre, Dance & Digital Artists
If you’re a theatremaker, dancer, choreographer, or artist based in Northern Ireland, now is the time to explore exciting Arts Council NI funding opportunities. These programmes provide valuable support for artists at all stages of their careers. Below is a round-up of three major schemes currently open for applications, each offering a unique chance for development funding or opportunities.
1. National Lottery Artists’ International Development Fund (SIAP)
Deadline: Thursday, 14 August 2025 at 12:00 PM
The Artists’ International Development Fund, part of the Arts Council’s SIAP programme and delivered in partnership with the British Council, supports emerging and early-career artists from Northern Ireland to gain international experience. Grants between £1,000 and £7,000 are available for residencies, creative collaborations, travel, venue hire, materials, and promotional costs.
2. Rural Engagement Arts Programme (REAP)
Deadline: Thursday, 25 September 2025 at 12:00 PM
The Rural Engagement Arts Programme, supported by The National Lottery, focuses on tackling isolation and promoting wellbeing through arts participation in rural Northern Ireland. Grants from £500 to £10,000 are available for projects that engage communities of all ages in creative activity, including outreach, workshops, marketing, venue hire, and equipment purchase (equipment limit applies as per SIAP).
3. China Artists Residency Programme
Deadline: Thursday, 21 August 2025 at 12:00 PM
In partnership with the Chinese Consulate (Belfast), the China Artists Residency Programme could fund up to a 30-day residency in Beijing for Northern Ireland-based digital artists. Undergraduates, postgraduates, and employees of statutory bodies are eligible, provided the proposed residency project is separate from academic or employer-led work. Applicants will need a letter of support to confirm this distinction.