The British Council has opened applications for its Connections Through Culture grants, supporting new collaborative projects between the UK and partners in participating countries.
The 2026 round incorporates grant strands previously known as Biennials Connect (Visual Arts) and Architecture, Design and Fashion Biennials and Festivals Grants. Connections Through Culture grants are intended to foster cross-cultural exchange, promote the sharing of skills and knowledge and help develop longer-term international relationships.
Awards of between £5,000 and £15,000 are available. Applications are accepted from both organisations and individuals, with eligibility requiring at least one UK partner and one partner based in an eligible participating country. Each partner must be legally based in the country they are applying from at the time of application and for the duration of the project.
Support is intended for the development of new creative projects leading to collaborative activity. This may include co-creation, residencies, exchanges, workshops, research and development, exhibitions, performances, showcases, festivals, publications, webinars and conferences. Projects can be delivered digitally, in person or through a hybrid approach.
A wide range of themes and artforms can be supported, including architecture, design, fashion and craft, creative technology such as digital arts, XR or immersive work and games, film, literature, music, theatre and dance and visual arts. For projects delivered as part of visual arts, architecture, design, fashion or craft festivals or biennials, the festival or biennial organisation should submit the application rather than individual artists, designers or practitioners.
The deadline for applications is 12 August 2026 (23:59).
