Open call: National Arts Council 2026/2027 PESP 7 funding

The programme forms part of a government initiative designed to stimulate employment for artists, creatives and cultural workers following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key dates

• Opening date: 4 May 2026
• Closing date: 29 May 2026
• Outcomes announcement: 14 August 2026

Eligibility

Applications are open to:

• Individual arts practitioners
• Registered arts organisations
• Community arts centres

Eligible disciplines include:

• Music
• Musical theatre
• Craft
• Dance
• Literature
• Multidisciplinary arts
• Visual arts

Only one application per individual or organisation will be considered.

Project scope

Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that:

• Create employment opportunities within the arts sector
• Demonstrate sustainability over time
• Deliver measurable impact within communities
• Support youth participation and vulnerable groups

Eligible project types include:

• Creation and composition
• Workshops and training
• Performances and showcases
• Exhibitions
• Scriptwriting
• Residencies
• Other arts-related activities

Projects promoting South African indigenous art forms and intellectual property are encouraged.

Funding categories

• Major projects
• Up to R800 000
• Must create at least 70 job opportunities
• Should include national reach, capacity building and audience development

Medium-scale projects

• Up to R500 000
  • Must create at least 40 job opportunities
  • Should include capacity building and audience development
• Other projects
• Up to R300,000
• Assessed on artistic merit
• Must benefit youth and vulnerable groups

Applications exceeding the maximum funding thresholds will not be considered.

Application process

• Applications must be submitted online via the NAC portal
• Manual applications are available on request via email at pesp@nac.org.za for applicants without internet access
• Submission deadlines:
  • Online: 29 May 2026 at 11.59 p.m.
  • Manual: 29 May 2026 at 5 p.m.

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Additional information

• All funded projects must be completed by 31 March 2027
• Funding is awarded at the discretion of the NAC, and submission does not guarantee support
• Appeals must be submitted via the designated NAC email address

Applicants who do not meet compliance requirements will receive notification prior to the official outcomes date, with further details available upon request from Arts Development Officers.

Members of NAC panels and council structures are not eligible to apply during their term of office, in line with conflict-of-interest policies.

View the original call here.