Applications are open for Create Grants for 2026 to 2027. If you’re a freelancer, group or organisation with an idea for an activity that brings arts and culture to Royal Greenwich residents, apply now for funding.
Create offers grants of up to £3,000, to locally based artists and creatives to deliver both new Community Arts projects and/or Black History 365 (BH365) projects, that support the council’s commitment to the themes of its Culture Strategy: Create, Connect and Flourish.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “Through Create, we’re empowering our local creative sector to connect with our communities to produce a diverse range of new artworks across the borough, from performances and public art to exhibitions or spoken and written word. These grants break down barriers to all creative communities towards participating in and accessing arts and culture.
“This year, in support of our Cultural Impact Award programme, we’re looking for projects with a focus on young people – whether that’s as producers, performers, artists or audience members. Two community advisory panels of local people of all ages and backgrounds, will help us assess applications and commission a programme that truly represents the diversity and stories of our borough.
“So, if you’re a young adult aged 18 or above, and you have a brilliant creative idea, or if you want to connect with and put young people at the heart of your artistic project, apply now for Create funding to bring your project to life.”
Previous Create funded events include social sing-a-longs, sensory-friendly exhibitions and writing workshops exploring Black history. In 2026, we'll place particular importance on activities that prioritise young people.
You can apply for a grant to co-design a project that:
- is free for residents to attend or take part in
- brings together diverse communities
- tells new stories or shines a light on hidden creativity
- builds partnerships between artists and community groups
- brings life to public spaces and/or unusual locations and attracts new and local audiences.
Read guidance notes and apply before 12 noon on Thursday 16 April 2026.
Alongside Create, Royal Greenwich Festivals is the council’s flagship funding programme for free outdoor arts experiences and summer festivals for our residents to enjoy.
We also provide strategic funding for creative and cultural organisations in Royal Greenwich as part of our 2023 to 2027 Volunteer and Community Sector Funding.
About the Royal Borough of Greenwich Culture Strategy
From November 2023 to January 2024, the council consulted and engaged with residents, community groups and the local arts and culture sector to develop the borough’s first ever Culture Strategy.
The strategy recognises the unique culture and heritage that already exists in Royal Greenwich, and sets out a clear vision for the future of culture in the borough: “In 2030, the Royal Borough of Greenwich will be a place where creative people, innovation and cultural connections inspire, encourage and flourish.”