The Goethe-Institut has opened a call for proposals for non-profit heritage organisations in Southern Africa to lead “Narrative Clusters” that develop new heritage narratives through interdisciplinary co-creation. The call will award at least eight grants, with up to €55,000 per selected organisation.
Each selected organisation will lead a Narrative Cluster made up of approximately nine artists/creatives from a minimum of three of the six project countries. The cluster’s purpose is to develop co-created heritage narratives into interdisciplinary co-productions over a six-month period, supported through structured retreats, joint working sessions, co-production activity and local outreach.
Who can apply
Applicants must be a non-profit, non-governmental legal entity registered in one of the six project countries: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe. Organisations must have been operational for at least two years, with a demonstrated track record of heritage-related activities, and must manage a tangible heritage site or represent an intangible heritage practice linked to one of the six countries. Preference will be given to organisations representing lesser-known heritage sites or practices, particularly those outside major urban centres.
Eligible activities include coordinating the Narrative Cluster, hosting a Narrative Development Retreat (two weeks), convening two joint working sessions within a six-month period, supporting the production of interdisciplinary works, and delivering local outreach and engagement activities that involve communities, including youth and source communities.
Cross-cutting requirements
Applicants must incorporate measures to promote gender equality (including an aim of 50% participation of women and/or women’s narratives/perspectives), inclusion of persons with disabilities, and environmentally sustainable practices across activities.
Funding and what it can cover
The grant amount is up to €55,000 per selected organisation. Eligible costs include staff costs, event organisation, co-production funding (such as materials and equipment hire), travel, accommodation, outreach activities, and costs linked to accessibility and environmental sustainability. Staff costs are recommended not to exceed 20% of the total budget.
Key dates
Application deadline: 13 February 2026
Deadline for enquiries: 6 February 2026
Evaluation and selection period: 16–27 February 2026
Notification and contracting: 2–6 March 2026
Project start date: 16 March 2026
How to apply
Applications must be submitted via the Goethe-Application Portal (GAP). Applications submitted by email will not be accepted. The application requires a narrative submission (including organisational profile, heritage description, proposed themes, collaboration plan and outreach strategy) and a budget using the GAP budget template only. Applicants can access FAQs via goethe.de/aepc and may direct queries to the Goethe-Institut Johannesburg at eup-ssa@goethe.de. No queries will be accepted from 6 February 2026.
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.