The Seed Award is now open for applications from emerging artists and cultural practitioners whose work brings fresh ideas, bold perspectives and renewed energy to cultural practice.
The programme supports socially and politically engaged work that strengthens communities, promotes freedom of expression and nurtures safe, inclusive spaces within civil society.
Focus
The Seed Award targets early-career artists whose practices meaningfully engage with social, political or environmental issues.
It aims to amplify innovative voices, encourage creative risk-taking, and support artistic and cultural practices that contribute to more equitable, resilient and culturally vibrant societies.
Funding details
Each selected recipient will receive a USD 5,500 grant to support the development of their artistic or cultural practice.
The funding may be used for:
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Participation in residencies, festivals or workshops
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Dedicated time and space for research and creation
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Investment in materials or equipment
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Compensation for collaborators
The grant does not cover tuition fees, scholarships or enrolment in formal academic programmes.
Who can be nominated
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Emerging artists or cultural practitioners with 1–5 years of professional experience.
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Individuals whose work addresses social, political or environmental issues.
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Practitioners based in eligible countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
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Artists who have received limited prior institutional support.
Selection process
The selection process takes place in four stages:
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Longlisting of eligible applications.
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Assessment by external experts to create a shortlist.
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Final selection by the Prince Claus Fund, considering diversity, geographic spread, focus, engagement and quality of practice.
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Contracting with selected grant recipients.
Priority is given to applicants whose practice would be significantly strengthened by the grant and who have not yet received widespread recognition.
Requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
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A completed application form with personal and practice details.
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A video or audio pitch (maximum three minutes) explaining their artistic motivation.
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A signed reference letter.
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An updated CV.
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Supporting materials such as work samples, reviews or interviews
Applications should focus on the applicant’s main themes and disciplines and must be submitted in English. Subtitles are allowed for supporting materials in other languages.
Deadline
The application ends on January 8, 2026. Interested applicants should apply via the Prince Claus Fund website.
Discover more global artistic programmes on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
