Hugo Burge Foundation - 2026 Grant Programme
Background
The Hugo Burge Foundation is a major new arts funding body. In 2025, its first full year, it distributed £400,000 in grant funding to individuals, communities, and organisations across the United Kingdom. The Foundation aims to have non-restrictive, flexible criteria, and is committed to making the application process accessible and equitable.
Objectives of Fund
The 2026 programme supports three key areas:
- Creative Education: Building creative knowledge and skills for young people.
- Creative Communities: Developing and delivering cultural or creative initiatives locally.
- Creative Individuals: Supporting the development of artistic projects or practice.
An Access Support Fund of £7,000 is also available on a first-come, first-served basis to pay access support workers (up to £300 per day) for applicants who face barriers applying without assistance, including those who are Deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent. No proof is required.
Value Notes
The programme contains three distinct funds with different criteria:
| Fund | Total Pot | Max Award | Match Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Education | £100,000 | £15,000 | Not required for requests up to £10,000. For requests over £10,000, a minimum of 30% from alternate sources is required. |
| Creative Communities | £150,000 | £15,000 | Same as above. |
| Creative Individuals | £50,000 | £5,000 | The award can fund the entire project. |
A limited number of multi-year grants (max 3 years) are available for the Education and Communities funds.
Who Can Apply
Applicants vary by fund:
- Creative Education: Schools, local authorities, community groups, charities, museum/gallery spaces, educational institutions, arts organisations, and more. Projects must support young people (aged 0-29).
- Creative Communities: Festivals, charities, arts organisations, and community groups.
- Creative Individuals: Practitioners in all creative disciplines across the UK. Open to individuals.
Location
United Kingdom.
Eligible Expenditure
The Foundation provides funding for projects that align with the specific goals of each fund. The Access Support Fund covers the cost of paying an access support worker to assist with the application process.
How To Apply
Applications are accepted via Submittable when the application window is open.
Deadline: 31 July 2026.
The Foundation asks that individuals and organisations refrain from emailing applications or enquiries until the next grant update. Draft application forms (PDF, non-editable) are available to preview on the website. The live application will accept DBS, local checks, safeguarding policies, and PVG scheme proof.
A recording of the Grants Q&A from 2 June 2026 and an interactive map of 2025 grant recipients are available on the Foundation's website.
