Arts Council England (ACE) has introduced a revamped process for its upcoming National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) funding, aiming to simplify applications and elevate local voices in the decision-making process.
Key details include:
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Application Period: Applications will be open from October 20 to December 2026, with funding decisions expected by summer 2027. Eligible entities such as museums, arts organizations, and libraries can apply for annual grants starting at £50,000.
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Simplified Process: The new application hub emphasizes less paperwork, allowing organizations to express their creative vision without the need for detailed plans unless funding is awarded.
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Five-Year Commitment: For the first time, the funding period will span five years (April 2028 to March 2033), providing greater stability for awarded organizations.
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Local Engagement: ACE will establish 32 regional boards to gather insights on local priorities. Additionally, 20,000 people will be surveyed to better understand their engagement with culture and barriers faced.
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Focus Areas for Museums: ACE has identified six focal points for the museum sector:
- Sustainable collections stewardship
- Public value of museums
- Business transformation
- Organizational sustainability
- Ambitious museums
- Workforce development
- Placemaking
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Greater Emphasis on Quality: While encouraging personal expression in applications, the selection process will remain centered on artistic excellence.
ACE Chair Dawn Airey stressed the importance of inclusivity in cultural experiences, while CEO Darren Henley noted that the competitive funding landscape means only a fraction of proposals will receive support.
Organizations interested in the new NPO process can attend a series of webinars organized by ACE for further guidance.
