On this page, you’ll find everything you need to apply to our annual grants call. Please read the eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully before applying.
Introduction
The Open Arts Fund supports artists, writers, creative practitioners, collectives and organisations developing projects connected to Northern Nigeria.
Through the grants, Open Arts provides flexible funding for new and existing creative projects across different disciplines, including but not limited to, visual arts, literature, photography, film, performance, craft, research and community-led initiatives.
Each grant provides up to ₦500,000 per application.
This year, we are expanding our funding offer to include a grant specifically for members of the Open Arts Community, building on our ongoing support for artists, grassroots communities and creative organisations.
Applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines for the relevant grant before applying. We receive a large number of applications each year and are therefore unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.
1. Open Arts Community Fund
2026 Call for Applications
The Open Arts Community Fund provides funding exclusively for members of the Open Arts community to develop and realise creative projects.
The Fund supports new and existing projects across different creative disciplines, giving community members access to financial support and opportunities to share their work with the wider public through Open Arts Space.
What the Fund Provides
Selected applicants receive:
- Up to ₦500,000 in unrestricted funding
- Support to develop and deliver their project
- The opportunity to create and host an event at Open Arts Space
- Access to the Open Arts Community and wider creative network
Projects can take different forms, including exhibitions, performances, literary projects, workshops, screenings, research projects, community initiatives or other creative ideas.
Who Can Apply?
The Open Arts Community Fund is open exclusively to members of the Open Arts Community.
Artists, writers, curators, cultural workers, creative collectives and other creative practitioners can apply with a new or existing project they want to develop, produce or bring to the public.
Project Period
Funded projects must be completed within six months of receiving the grant.
How to Apply
Submit a two-page proposal including:
- Project description
- What you hope to achieve
- Project timeline
- Budget
- Open Arts Community membership code
Submit your proposal as a single PDF to:
Use the subject line: Open Arts Community Fund
Deadline: 10 November 2026
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
2. Open Arts Fund
Open Call
The Open Arts Fund supports artists, creative practitioners, collectives and organisations developing projects that contribute to the creative ecosystem in Northern Nigeria.
The Fund is now entering its third year and has previously supported 10 recipients. It provides unrestricted funding for new and existing projects across different creative disciplines.
What the Fund Supports
The Fund provides up to ₦500,000 in unrestricted funding per application.
Funding can support:
- New creative projects and ideas
- Existing projects that need additional support
- Artistic and literary practice
- Collective and community-led initiatives
- Research, production and development
- Activities that create opportunities for artists, writers and creative communities
We are particularly interested in initiatives that expand professional development, access to the arts, support creative development and create opportunities for artists and communities.
Who Can Apply?
The Open Arts Fund is open to:
- Individual artists and cultural practitioners
- Duos
- Creative collectives
- Arts and cultural organisations
- Practitioners working across all creative disciplines
Applicants must be based in Nigeria, and their proposed work should meaningfully contribute to the creative ecosystem in Northern Nigeria or create opportunities for talents connected to the region.
Project Period
Funded projects must be completed within six months of receiving the grant.
How to Apply
Submit a two-page proposal including:
- A brief description of your project or initiative
- What you hope to achieve
- Project timeline
- Budget
Submit your proposal as a single PDF to:
Use the subject line: Open Arts Fund
Deadline: 10 November 2026
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Questions?
For enquiries about the Open Arts Fund or the application process, contact: