We’re all familiar with the funding crisis facing schools and the impact this is having on the teaching of arts and creative subjects, as reported in the press.
Despite the January 2020 announcement about a DfE funding boost for arts and culture, particularly music, funding shortages and cuts continue to put young people’s overall engagement in art and cultural activity in schools, or on cultural visits and trips, at risk.
Here are a few resources, grants and funds available that schools can access for arts and cultural activity:
National Lottery Awards for All
GRANTfinder – Curious Minds, the Arts Council England’s Bridge organisation connecting young people to art and culture in the North West, has access to this. They may be able to offer you support to identify potential funding sources for your project.
Community Foundation for Merseyside
The National Lottery Community Fund (formerly Big Lottery Fund) – this needs to have an impact on local community and be led by the community/voluntary sector.
Other guidance and sources of information
You may need to subscribe to some of these sites or search through lists of grants to see which would be relevant for arts, culture and our local area:
Grants Online – UK grant funding information service, updated daily
Merseyside Funding Information Portal (MFIP)
TES tips on raising funds for school arts activities
There is also substantial funding available from corporate or individual philanthropists. You may find some useful information or advice here:
Guide to corporate sponsorship
For individual young people
The Department for Education Dance and Drama Awards (DaDAs), which provide funding for students who want to work in the performing arts: