The National Heritage Council (NHC) in South Africa has officially opened applications for its 2025/26 funding cycle, calling on South African heritage practitioners and organisations to submit proposals that preserve, protect, and promote the country’s diverse cultural heritage.
Since 2009, the NHC has been committed to addressing the financial challenges faced by heritage-focused initiatives, especially those rooted in community-based practices. From traditional ceremonies to indigenous knowledge systems, many of these initiatives have thrived thanks to the passion and commitment of local custodians – often without formal support or recognition. The NHC aims to change this narrative by offering financial and developmental assistance to qualifying projects.
Funding provided by the NHC ranges from R50,000 to R1 million, depending on the scale and impact of the proposed project. Each funded initiative is expected to contribute meaningfully to job creation, with most projects estimated to generate employment for up to 45 individuals. In addition to financial support, beneficiaries benefit from capacity-building in project management, administration, and accountability – critical tools for long-term sustainability and growth.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include:
Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs)
Non-Profit Companies (NPCs)
Community-Based Organisations (CBOs)
Associations, Foundations, and Community Trusts (excluding family trusts)
Traditional Councils
Academic and Educational Institutions involved in heritage projects
Excluded Entities and Project Types
The NHC does not fund:
Individuals applying without qualifying partnerships
Profit-making businesses or Pty Ltd companies
Cultural performances, theatre, film, and video productions
Projects conducted outside South Africa
Capital expenditure, operational costs, or SETA-accredited training initiatives
A full list of ineligible applicants and project types is available on the NHC Funding Portal.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the NHC Funding Portal.
The deadline for submission is midnight on 30 June 2025.
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.