Organizer Information:

The Cortona On The Move / BarTur Grant is a major collaborative initiative hosted jointly by the BarTur Photo Award and Cortona On The Move. These two prestigious organizations are dedicated to fostering impactful, forward-thinking photographic work. Supported by the Visual Storytellers Fund, the partnership aims to elevate photographers whose work challenges, informs, and inspires global audiences.

Title & Description: This grant is specifically designed to support photographers working on long-term documentary projects that are currently "in progress." Recognizing that meaningful storytelling often takes years and significant financial resources, this opportunity aims to bridge the funding gap for unfinished projects. The organizers are looking for stories that matter deeply to the photographer—narratives they feel compelled to tell but lack the financial support to complete. The goal is to give these projects the resources they need to be seen, remembered, and help enact change.

Category: Photography (Documentary and Visual Storytelling).

Eligibility: The competition is open worldwide with two distinct tracks:

  • Professional Photographers: Open to established professionals.

  • Emerging Photographers: Open to photographers under 30 years old.

  • Note: Work must be original, "in progress," and previously unpublished.

 

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Main Grant (Professional): The winner receives $30,000, a fully funded trip to Italy for the Cortona On The Move festival (July 2026) to network with industry leaders, and a Solo Exhibition of the winning work at the 2027 edition of the festival.

  • Emerging Prizes: Two winners (under 30) will receive $5,000 each and participate in an online exhibition.

  • All winners are featured in an extensive international social media campaign.

Application Fee:

  • Professional Photographers ($30k Grant): $25 USD

  • Emerging Photographers (Under 30): FREE

Application Requirements: All materials must be submitted in English. Applicants generally need to provide:

  • A cohesive body of photographic work.

  • Artist statement and project description.

  • Short biography.

  • For Professionals: Proof of professional standing (e.g., Press Card or latest copy of published work).

How to Apply? Eligible photographers can submit their projects via the official online application portal found on the website below.

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: 16 April 2026.

  • Winners Announced: July 2026.

  • Solo Exhibition: July 2027.

Location: Cortona, Italy (for the festival and exhibition).

Additional Details: Judges will evaluate submissions based on creativity, relevance to the theme, technical quality, feasibility of completion, and potential for audience engagement.

Website:

https://www.barturphotoaward.org/