Organizer Information
The UNESCO International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) is a key global funding mechanism established under the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. This international treaty supports countries in developing policies and systems that strengthen cultural industries and ensure access to diverse cultural expressions.
Since its launch in 2010, the IFCD has funded over 175 projects across 77 developing countries, investing more than $13.6 million in initiatives that enhance creative economies, empower cultural professionals, and promote sustainable development. The fund plays a strategic role in fostering international cooperation—particularly South-South and North-South collaboration—while contributing to global priorities such as gender equality, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth.
Title & Description
UNESCO IFCD 2026 – Call for Funding Requests
The International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) has officially launched its 17th call for funding requests, inviting organizations and public institutions to submit project proposals that support the development of sustainable cultural and creative industries in eligible countries.
This funding program is not designed for individual artistic production, but rather for projects that generate long-term, structural impact within the cultural sector. It prioritizes initiatives that strengthen policy frameworks, build institutional capacity, improve access to markets, and enhance participation in cultural life.
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that address systemic challenges in the cultural ecosystem—ranging from policy development and cultural governance to digital transformation and equitable access to creative resources. Projects should demonstrate clear outcomes that contribute to sustainable cultural infrastructure and economic development.
The IFCD supports initiatives across multiple cultural sectors, including audiovisual media, performing arts, design, publishing, music, and visual arts. Proposals should reflect innovation, scalability, and relevance to local and regional needs, while aligning with UNESCO’s broader development goals.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Performing Arts
- Film & Audiovisual
- Media Arts
- Music
- Design
- Publishing
- Interdisciplinary Cultural Projects
Eligibility
- Open to developing countries that are Parties to the 2005 Convention
- Public authorities and institutions from eligible countries
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from eligible countries
- International NGOs (INGOs) must implement projects across at least two eligible countries)
- Projects must demonstrate impact at national, regional, or international levels
- Individual artists are not eligible to apply directly
Program Benefits & Awards
- Grants of up to USD $100,000 per project
- Funding is distributed in three installments:
- 50% at project start
- 30% mid-term
- 20% upon completion
- Support for projects lasting 12 to 24 months
- Opportunity to contribute to national and international cultural policy development
- Increased visibility through UNESCO’s global platform
- Strengthening of institutional and professional capacities
- Access to international cultural networks and partnerships
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed online application form
- Detailed Project Framework (Excel format)
- Supporting documents (organizational and project-related)
- Budget plan including communication and audit costs
- Documentation in English or French
Applicants are advised to carefully review official guidelines and ensure compliance with all technical requirements before submission.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 6 May 2026
- Pre-selection Phase: Until 30 June 2026
- Final Selection Decision: January 2027
- Project Start Date: From May 2027 (earliest)
- Project Duration: 12–24 months
Location
France
Additional Details
- Projects must focus on structural impact, not individual artistic production
- Strong emphasis on policy development, capacity-building, and market access
- Projects must include a communication strategy and external audit costs
- Co-funding is recommended to enhance project sustainability
- Projects should align with UNESCO priorities, including:
- Gender equality
- Youth engagement
- African development
- Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
- Evaluation criteria include feasibility, sustainability, impact, and financial accountability
- Only one application per NGO/public institution is allowed (INGOs may submit up to two)