The Prince Claus Fund was established on 6 September 1996 as a tribute to HRH Prince Claus’s dedication to culture and his belief in its role in the development of all societies.
Our mission is to support, honour and connect artists and cultural practitioners in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Eastern Europe, especially where cultural expression is under pressure.
Our vision is of a world where cultural expression is free and valued.
Since its founding, the Fund has created opportunities for connection and exchange, stimulated cultural expression and preserved cultural heritage in a variety of ways. We support artists and cultural practitioners through a sequence of three different Awards designed to address the specific needs at a crucial stage of a creative career.
We are supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Dutch Postcode Lottery, and private individuals and institutions. We also collaborate with like-minded organisations on joint calls for Mentorship Awards.