Arts Council England have announced their delivery plan until 2024. This new plan directly links with their Let’s Create strategy that will set the agenda for the funding body for the next decade. There are some key changes within their funding streams that will impact freelancers, so here’s what you need to know.
Key Highlights:
- Developing Your Creative Practice continues with a sustained budget.
- National Lottery Project Grants small grants threshold extended.
- More support for individuals and emerging artists.
- Changes from September 2021
Developing Your Creative Practice (DCYP)
ACE have confirmed that DYCP shall be returning as part of their delivery plan and will be maintained at the same level of increased budget that was delivered across the pandemic period. This is brilliant news as it’s the only funding stream ACE offers for individuals who are looking to develop their creative practice. It’s also one of ACE’s most straightforward application processes.
Quick Glance:
- £2,000-£10,000
- For individual artists/creatives including producers, DJs, community practitioners and more.
- Every 3-4 months, application via Grantium.
You can find out more about DYCP here:
https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/DYCP
National Lottery Project Grants (NLPG)
ACE have also confirmed the continuation of their NLPG funding stream including an increase of the small grants threshold. From September 2021 small grants will now be up to £30,000 (previously £15,000). This is excellent news as its ACE’s most popular funding stream for those who are not regularly funded by the body. You can apply for arts specific projects including theatre shows, R&Ds and digital projects. With the increased threshold more projects can be better resourced through ACE for delivery – and of course that includes freelancers being paid.
ACE also reports that they will be targeting their advice for NLPG for first time applicants and will be providing “improved support for individual artists and creative practitioners, especially at the start of their career”. They’ve not said how yet, so watch this space.
Quick Glance:
- Under £30,000 or Over £30,000
- For companies, organisations or individuals.
- Rolling application process
You can find out more about NGLP here:
