Call for Grants for creative sector projects by UNESCO – Apply by 21 May 2025.
About Organisation
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to fostering peace and security through international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication. By supporting cultural diversity and sustainable development, UNESCO promotes access to knowledge, inclusive participation, and the protection of heritage. One of its key instruments, the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, serves as a framework for empowering the creative and cultural industries globally. Through programs and funding initiatives, UNESCO helps to strengthen cultural ecosystems, support policy-making, and nurture talent—particularly in the Global South. The International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD), established under this convention, serves as a catalyst to stimulate transformative projects aimed at enhancing cultural production, distribution, and access, thus contributing to more inclusive and sustainable societies.
About the Grant
The International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) is a UNESCO initiative designed to support innovative projects that contribute to the development of the cultural and creative industries in the Global South. Now in its sixteenth cycle, this competitive funding opportunity is aimed at generating meaningful, long-term outcomes through targeted support. Projects funded by the IFCD must focus on implementing or improving policies and measures that influence the creation, production, and accessibility of diverse cultural goods and services. They should also aim to build the capacities of public and civil society institutions that support viable cultural markets. By offering financial and strategic support, IFCD encourages systemic changes that empower local communities, promote cultural expressions, and sustain cultural diversity. The grant prioritizes structural impact and fosters the emergence of inclusive and resilient cultural ecosystems.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to public institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from eligible countries in the Global South. These applicants must be engaged in cultural and creative sector development and must demonstrate the ability to deliver results with lasting structural impact. Additionally, international NGOs registered in countries that are parties to the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions are also eligible to apply. Eligible organizations should be able to design and implement projects that strengthen the cultural value chain—from creation to distribution and access—while reinforcing institutional and organizational capacity. The focus should be on sustainability, inclusion, and cultural empowerment at local or regional levels. All applicants must ensure their projects align with IFCD’s mission to foster diversity in cultural expressions and support cultural industries.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit a detailed project proposal through the official online application portal, including documentation of organizational eligibility and the expected impact. Proposals should align with IFCD’s goals and guidelines.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 21 May 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
Ensure all required documents and proposals are uploaded by 21 May 2025 to be eligible for review.
Grant Amount
Selected projects will receive funding of up to US $100,000, aimed at implementing high-impact initiatives within the cultural and creative sectors of the Global South.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
