Up to £10,000 is available for cross-cultural collaborative arts projects
The British Council’s Connections Through Culture Grants support artistic collaboration between the UK and select countries in the Asia-Pacific and Europe.
The grants support collaborative projects between artists, creative practitioners and arts organisations, fostering cross-cultural exchange and lasting relationships.
In 2024, the programme awarded over £741,000 and supported 84 collaborations exploring a wide range of themes, including diversity and inclusion and climate action. This year, the programme will expand to include new countries, providing more opportunities for a broader range of international partners.
What can the grant be used for?
The grants support the development of new creative projects leading to collaborative activities that promote the exchange of skills, knowledge, and practice. Various approaches can be taken such as art residencies, exhibitions, performances, showcases, publications, webinars, and conferences, among others. Projects can be digital, face to face or a hybrid of both.
Who can apply?
Each application must comprise of at least one UK partner and one international partner from the following countries Australia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Mainland China, Indonesia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Viet Nam.
If you’re applying as an individual
For the UK, eligible individuals are those living and working in the UK. For participating countries, individuals need to be residents of that country.
Types of projects that can get funding
The funders accept applications covering all artforms and outcomes. However, applications that respond to the Connections Through Culture 2025 priority themes of diversity and inclusion and climate change may be prioritised during final decision-making.
Collaboration is central to the programme, and partners should work together to co-create, co-deliver, or co-explore innovative artistic and cultural projects.
Applications are open until 23 June 2025 and must be submitted online.
For detailed application guidance and FAQs, visit the British Council’s website.
First published 25 May 2025
