City opens arts and culture funding applications for Cape Town organisations

Cape Town organisations working in arts, culture and heritage can now apply for City funding to support projects and programmes across the metro, with applications open until 30 October 2026.

The* City of Cape Town’s* Arts and Culture Development Branch opened its Grants-in-Aid funding window on 1 October, with funding available for the 2027/28 and 2028/29 financial years.

The programme supports organisations using arts, culture and heritage initiatives to create opportunities, develop talent and bring communities together.

Organisations can submit proposals for projects including programmes, productions, performances, public activations, arts and culture-related training initiatives and exhibitions.

The City says proposed projects should promote inclusivity and accessibility and, where possible, allow members of the public to participate for free or at a minimal cost.

Projects should focus on sustainable cultural and creative initiatives aimed at young people between the ages of seven and 35, or vulnerable groups including women, children, seniors and persons with disabilities.

Organisations applying for both financial years must submit a separate application for each year.

The City allocated R3,81 million through its Grants-in-Aid programme during the 2025/26 financial year.

The funding supported 14 organisations working on arts, culture, heritage and community development initiatives across Cape Town.

City Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, said the programme had supported organisations including Masi Violin Outreach and Sbondaba Dance.

‘Arts and culture can open doors for people, nurture talent and create opportunities for communities to come together,’ said Higham.

She added that the supported programmes could help young people develop their talents, build confidence and find pathways into the creative economy.

‘Last year, the City allocated R3,81 million to 14 organisations, and we want this funding to continue supporting accessible arts, culture and heritage opportunities across Cape Town,’ she said.

The City is also hosting public participation sessions to assist organisations interested in applying.

The sessions will take place at the following venues:

Date Time Venue Address 6 October 2026 10:00–11:00 Sarepta Community Hall Rietvlei Road, Kuils River 7 October 2026 10:00–11:00 Claremont Civic Centre 231 Main Road, Claremont 8 October 2026 09:00–11:00 Bellville-South Community Hall Kasselsvlei Road, Bellville South 8 October 2026 13:00–14:00 Mowbray Town Hall Main Road, Mowbray

The City has advised applicants that several requirements and supporting documents are needed as part of the application process.

For further information, organisations can contact artsandculture.gia@capetown.gov.za, nareze.andreas@capetown.gov.za or rhyno.jansen@capetown.gov.za.

Applicants can also call 021 444 0381 or 021 417 4104 for assistance.

The City said funded projects provide opportunities for artists, cultural practitioners, young people, women and persons with disabilities, while supporting access to arts programmes, heritage experiences, skills development and psychosocial support services in communities across Cape Town.

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