Media Statement: For immediate release 18 June 2026
The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) wishes to provide an update to applicants and stakeholders regarding the outcomes of the 2026 Annual Project Funding Call.
Earlier this year, the NAC invited applications from active creative practitioners and organisations across seven artistic disciplines, namely Craft, Dance, Literature, Music, Multidiscipline, Theatre, and Visual Arts. The announcement of funding outcomes was initially scheduled for 29 May 2026. However, the release was postponed due to governance matters arising from the dissolution of the NAC Council.
Following the appointment of the Acting Accounting Authority and Acting Chief Executive Officer, the governance matters have been addressed, allowing the adjudication and review processes to proceed to completion. The NAC is pleased to confirm that the review process is now at an advanced stage and that preparations for the publication of funding outcomes are underway.
In the interest of providing timely feedback to applicants while ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and quality assurance of the process, the NAC will release the outcomes in a phased approach according to the following schedule:
- Craft, Literature and Visual Arts: by Tuesday, 23 June 2026;
- Dance and Theatre: by Wednesday, 24 June 2026;
- Music and Multidiscipline: by Friday, 26 June 2026.
This phased release has been necessitated by the high volume of applications received, particularly within the Music and Multidisciplinary Arts categories, which attracted the largest number of submissions.
The NAC appreciates the patience, understanding, and continued support of artists, cultural practitioners, organisations, and stakeholders throughout this process. The organisation remains committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and accountable funding process that supports the growth, sustainability, and transformation of South Africa’s vibrant arts sector.
-ENDS-
Media enquiries: media@nac.org.za
Issued by the National Arts Council of South Africa
