The Goethe-Institut has launched an open call for non-profit heritage organisations across six Southern African countries to apply for cultural grants of up to €55,000. This is part of the Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture: Southern Africa programme funded by the European Union (EU).
This initiative seeks a minimum of 16 heritage organisations in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe to lead “Narrative Clusters” — creative collaborations that bring together artists and cultural professionals in the focus countries.
Each selected organisation will lead a “Narrative Cluster” over an 18-month period, working with a group of artists and creatives to co-develop and produce new interdisciplinary heritage narratives in areas such as literature, film, performing arts, visual arts, crafts, digital/VR/AR productions. Activities will include recruiting creatives, hosting collaborative retreats, coordinating joint working sessions, presenting local showcase events, and implementing targeted community outreach. All projects must integrate cross-cutting priorities such as gender equality, disability inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
Key Dates and Information Sessions
Information Session 1: Wednesday, 6 August 2025
Information Session 2: Wednesday, 20 August 2025
Last day for enquiries: Wednesday, 3 September 2025
Application deadline: Wednesday, 10 September 2025
These sessions will provide clarity on the application process, eligibility criteria, and project expectations. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend.
Eligibility and Funding Details
Eligible applicants: Non-profit, non-governmental heritage organisations operational for at least two years in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, or Zimbabwe.
Excluded: UNESCO heritage sites and organisations less than two years old.
Grant size: Up to €55,000 per organisation.
Application portal: https://portal.gap.goethe.de/en-US
Project Timeline Overview
Call publication: 30 July 2025
Application deadline: 10 September 2025
Evaluation period: 11–24 September 2025
Notifications: October 2025
Project start: November 2025
Project end: 31 May 2027
For full guidelines and application requirements, visit the Goethe Application Portal. Technical support: eup-gap@goethe.de. General enquiries: eup-ssa@goethe.de or call +27 11 442 3232.
Your funding experts
InterArts Funding offers its expertise to assist you in applying for grant opportunities (including this one), leveraging our extensive experience to enhance your chances of securing the grant. It is important to clarify that InterArts Funding is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any specific funding organisation. While we have a commendable track record of success, we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Grant outcomes depend on various factors beyond our control.