UNESCO-Aschberg Programme for Artists and Cultural Professionals

What the UNESCO-Aschberg Programme funds

Under this programme, up to about 43,000 EUR (50,000 USD) is awarded per project to organisations that champion the rights and working conditions of artists. The projects run for a period of 12 to 18 months. The funding comes from UNESCO and is financed by Norway. There are two funding streams:

• For civil society organisations: to around 43,000 EUR (50,000 USD) per project, for example for training, advocacy, research or emergency aid for artists at risk.
• For governments and public institutions: expert advice and technical support, as well as up to approximately 26,000 EUR (30,000 USD) for logistical measures such as meetings and communication, with a view to revising or reformulating laws and guidelines relating to the status of artists.

This is not a personal grant. It is intended to support organisations and public institutions, not individual artists.

Who can apply

• You are an organisation, not an individual: either a non-profit civil society organisation (NGO, foundation, artists’ network, research centre or academic institution) or a government body or public institution whose work focuses on the situation of artists.
• Your project protects artists: It promotes the status of artists and artistic freedom, such as the right to create without censorship, fair remuneration, freedom of movement and protection in emergencies.
• Track record (civil society only): Your organisation has been legally established for at least 2 years and has carried out at least one project in the cultural or creative sector over the last 2 years.
• Nationality: worldwide, in every UNESCO member state.
• Preferred applicants: People from developing countries, Africa and small island states, as well as first-time applicants. Preference is also given to projects that benefit artists from the Global South or address the issues of gender equality and youth.

How to apply

Download the relevant application form (there is a separate form for each area) and complete it in English or French. Submit it by email by the deadline on 23 February. An independent panel of experts will then review the applications and make recommendations as to which projects UNESCO should support.

How realistic are your chances?

This programme is aimed exclusively at organisations with a clear remit in the field of artists’ rights, and each country may be selected only once under the government programme. The pool of eligible applicants is therefore narrower than for an open scholarship. UNESCO receives a high number of applications and funds only around 16 projects per round, meaning competition is very fierce. Your chances will improve if you belong to one of the priority target groups and can demonstrate a convincing track record and a clear plan.