The ArtPower Belarus program has completed the first stage of the selection process for Track 1 (Organizational Development) and Track 2 (Creative Projects). Out of a total of 250 submitted applications, 35 projects were selected.
What was supported
In the first call of ArtPower Belarus, support was provided in two main areas: Track 1 (Organizational Development) and Track 2 (Creative Projects).
Track 1: Organizational Development was aimed at those who sought not only to implement a single cultural project, but also to strengthen their organization as an institution. Both formally registered organizations and informal initiatives willing to work on their sustainability were eligible to apply. Grants covered strategic planning, team development, improving internal processes, enhancing communication and partnerships, and launching new programs focused on long-term growth.
As a result of the selection process, 9 projects out of 37 submitted applications were supported those that best aligned with the goals of the track and demonstrated clear readiness for structural development.
Track 2: Creative Projects was designed to support cultural initiatives that create new artistic products and projects with a social, educational, or research component. These could include performances, exhibitions, research, films, public events, media, or educational formats. A wide variety of topics and project formats were noted, including interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches.
For MINI-grants (from €3,000 to €10,000), 120 applications were submitted and 12 supported. For larger MIDI-grants (from €10,000 to €60,000), 14 out of 93 applications received funding.
The total number of supported projects currently stands at 35, which shows that ArtPower Belarus aims not only at one-time assistance, but also at systemic support for Belarusian culture both inside the country and in exile.
Among the supported applications are projects from all 10 sectors defined in the program: visual arts and design, literature and publishing, performing arts, music and sound art, heritage and traditional culture, cinema and television, new media and cultural promotion, education, outreach and cultural research, cultural event management, and community and professional associations.
Launch of Track 3: Projects in exceptional circumstances
On August 19, the application process also opened for Track 3 (projects in exceptional circumstances). This track remains open on an ongoing basis. If you are facing force majeure situations — repression, forced emigration, loss of funding, health issues — you may apply at any time.
In early September, the first selection committee meeting for Track 3 was held, resulting in the support of three applications, two of which were from repressed cultural workers.
Expert evaluation and selection principles
ArtPower Belarus places special emphasis on transparency and professionalism in application evaluation. All applications submitted in the first round of Tracks 1 and 2 underwent a multi-stage review involving 25 independent experts representing the relevant cultural fields and disciplines.
The expert pool was formed through an open call to ensure diversity of perspectives and fair evaluation in light of current contexts, cultural specificity, and project potential. Each application received individual assessments from several experts.
Notably, Track 1 (Organizational Development) included mentoring support available to all applicants. Eight experienced mentors worked with participants to strengthen their proposals, clarify needs and goals, structure budgets, and develop project architecture.
After reviewing the expert assessments, the selection committee aimed to ensure diversity and balance among the selected projects in terms of format, theme, and cultural sectors. This approach allows for support not only of major institutions but also of newer or less visible yet essential initiatives shaping cultural life both in and beyond Belarus.
Information on supported public projects will gradually appear on the ArtPower Belarus website during their implementation.
What’s next?
ArtPower Belarus continues. The team invites everyone to prepare for the next calls by refining their proposals and taking advantage of educational opportunities:
- The next call for Track 2 (Creative Projects) will be announced in November 2025. MINI and MIDI-grant formats will again be available.
- The next call for Track 1 (Organizational Development) is scheduled for Spring 2026.
- Applications for Track 3 are accepted on a rolling basis.
We also encourage you to use the program’s educational resources: video recordings of workshops and info sessions are published on the ArtPower Belarus website. In addition, an open educational program, “5 Steps to Cultural Project Sustainability,” will start in September to help improve applications, develop community engagement, and explore alternative financing options.
We believe that even if your initiative did not receive funding this time, it is not the end but the beginning of a journey. Participating in the program is an opportunity to grow, connect, learn, and return with stronger projects.
For questions, contact: info@artpowergrants.org
ArtPower Belarus is a large-scale program that has supported the development of independent Belarusian culture since 2022 both inside the country and abroad. The initiative is implemented by the Belarusian Council for Culture in partnership with the Danish Cultural Institute and is funded by the European Union.
