We fund, champion and develop the arts across our communities. From a village theatre to a national opera house — creativity deserves investment at every scale.
Great art should not be determined by postcode or income. We work to ensure that communities everywhere — rural, urban, marginalised — can access and participate in cultural life.
Extraordinary art rarely emerges from safe choices. We champion bold, experimental work that takes risks — because that is where culture advances and new voices emerge.
The creative industries contribute over £116 billion to the national economy. We make the case for arts investment as economic and social infrastructure, not luxury.
The National Arts Council was established in the aftermath of the Second World War, founded on the conviction that a civilised society must nurture its artistic life. For 79 years, we have been the principal means by which public funds are distributed to artists and arts organisations across the country.
Grants are open to individuals and organisations across all art forms. Applications are assessed against clear public benefit, artistic quality and access criteria.
Peer review panels of practising artists and sector professionals assess applications — ensuring decisions are made by people who understand creative risk.
Successful applicants receive funding agreements with clear milestones and reporting requirements that are proportionate to the grant size.
Our relationship managers provide ongoing support, connecting funded organisations with peer networks, skills development and additional resources.
We publish annual impact reports documenting the reach, audiences and economic effect of every funded programme — maintaining public accountability.
Established by Royal Charter following the wartime CEMA programme, with an initial budget of £235,000.
Decentralisation to nine regional arts associations, ensuring funding reached communities beyond the capital.
Lottery funding transforms the Council's capacity, enabling landmark capital projects and touring programmes.
Emergency response to the pandemic: £1.57 billion distributed to keep arts organisations alive during lockdowns.
We fund artists and organisations at every stage of their career. Whether you are an emerging artist seeking your first grant or an established institution planning a major commission, our funding programmes are designed to support creative ambition.