Call for applications: Goethe-Institut Mobility grants for artists and culture professionals

The Goethe-Institut has launched a new mobility scheme offering grants of up to €4,000 for short-term travel by artists and culture professionals based in Sub-Saharan Africa and the European Union. The scheme is part of the broader Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture programme and is implemented in partnership with Expertise France and Institut français. With a total of 195 grants available on a rolling basis until 15 September 2027, the initiative aims to strengthen Africa-Africa and Africa-Europe cultural exchanges through physical, digital, or hybrid formats.

This mobility scheme primarily supports transcontinental (Africa-Africa) and secondarily intercontinental (Africa-Europe) short-term mobility for artists and culture professionals across all arts sectors. The scheme aims to strengthen partnerships within Africa, enhance career development, and create new opportunities for cultural exchange between Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe.

Grant Information:

• Maximum Grant Amount: €4,000 per mobility

• Total Grants Available: Up to 195 grants

• Application Type: Rolling basis with regular cut-off dates

• Coverage: Physical, digital, and hybrid mobilities

  
  

Deadline dates:

This is a rolling call with cut-off dates every quarter. Cut-off dates:

• Cut-off 1: 15 October 2025

• Cut-off 2: 15 March 2026

• Cut-off 3: 15 June 2026

• Cut-off 4: 15 September 2026

• Cut-off 5: 15 December 2026

• Cut-off 6: 15 March 2027

• Cut-off 7: 15 June 2027

• Final Cut-off: 15 September 2027

All deadlines at 23:59 CET.

Eligibility Criteria:

Your application is eligible if:

• You are over 18 years old

• You are an artist or culture professional linked to artistic disciplines (including but not limited to: visual arts, performing arts, music, literature, film, media arts, cultural heritage, design)

• You are currently based in Sub-Saharan Africa or in the European Union

• If based in the EU, you must demonstrate links to the African region

• You can apply as an individual or as part of a team

• You have a clear mobility purpose that aligns with the programme objectives

• You have established connections or invitations in your destination country

Eligible costs

The mobility grant may cover:

• Travel and accommodation

• Artist and facilitator fees

• Material costs

• Digital tools and services for hybrid/virtual mobility

• Costs for ecologically responsible practices (e.g. expert advice on emission reduction, CO₂ compensation)

Note: The following costs are not eligible:

• Infrastructural expenses (e.g. building, renting)

• Operational costs (e.g. salaries, insurance)

• Costs not directly linked to the mobility

How to apply

• Applications must be submitted via the Goethe-Application Portal (GAP).

• Applications must be submitted in English

  • If using another language, a certified English translation must be included

  • The English version is legally binding

• Drafts can be saved and completed later

• Once submitted, no changes can be made

• Applicants must download and complete the required application template, which must be uploaded during submission