Grants to Arts Returns With Two Application Rounds
Grants to Arts is Hull City Council's long-standing scheme of small grants for arts projects. It is highly valued by local artists and arts organisations seen as a life-line for many artists. Local artists consider it an invaluable resource to enable recipients to generate income, and to attract further investment as match funding.
It is good value with an average ratio in last 5 years of 8:1 return on Hull City Council’s investment. So every £1 of grant awarded generates £8 of inward investment in the city, for artists and the community.
A recent review of the Grants to Arts project grants scheme sought feedback from service users and those interested in the Arts. The review resulted in a revised scheme which aims to ensure it continues to be aligned with Council strategy, supporting the city’s cultural vision to: promote inclusivity; develop community-led approaches; and have measurable cultural impact.
There is a history of maximizing the impact of this funding, with grants averaging £1,700 over last 5 years. Demand on the fund is extremely high – increasingly so in the current economic climate – with a success rate of last 5 years of around 50%.
Changes - After the review
- Grants to Arts fund has increased to £40,000 per year.
- Round of funding reduced to 2 rounds per year (£20k per round)
- The maximum grant that can be requested remains £5k.
- Revised online application form
- More detailed written feedback to unsuccessful applicants
The 2026 review ensures that this Grants to Arts funding for art activities that take place in the city of Hull continues to be underpinned by priorities relating to Hull’s Culture and Heritage Strategy and Community Plan:
- Increases access to arts and culture
- Supports community-led or inclusive activity
- Develops local talent or creative skills
- Delivers innovation or high-quality cultural activity
Applications for the first round area are open!
Deadline for receipt of applications Round 1: 11pm Sunday 12 July 2026
Deadline for receipt of applications Round 2: 11pm Sunday 29 November 2026
Read more about the Grants to Arts Application criteria here and Grants to Arts important information here
Apply here: Grants to Arts - Project Fund | Arts grants | Hull
or contact Arts Development for further information via email: cityartsenquiries@hullcc.gov.uk