UK–IRL Culture Connects Grant 2026/27

The UK–IRL Culture Connects Grant 2026/27 is a British Council Ireland programme delivered in association with Arts Council Ireland that supports artistic collaboration between Ireland and the four nations of the UK. The fund is designed for emerging artists and creative practitioners who want to develop new ideas, build professional relationships and explore collaborative opportunities through in-person exchange.

The programme focuses on the early stages of creative development rather than the production of finished work. Funding can support research and development, experimentation, mentoring, creative exchange, exploration of new technologies and the development of future collaborative projects. The emphasis is on meaningful artistic growth, professional development and strengthening cross-border cultural connections.

Applications must be made by a partnership of two individual artists or creative practitioners, with one partner based in Ireland and the other based in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Applicants must be resident in their respective countries, have a demonstrable professional track record, be at an early or developing stage of their career and not be in full-time education.

Applicants can request grants of up to €3,000 to cover costs such as artist fees, collaborator fees, travel, accommodation, studio hire, access support and materials directly linked to the collaboration. Projects must involve face-to-face collaboration, as fully remote activity is not eligible for support.

Funded activity must take place between October 2026 and March 2027 and be completed by 31 March 2027. The programme offers a valuable opportunity for artists to build international networks, test new ideas and develop future creative projects while strengthening cultural relationships between the UK and Ireland.

Find out more.