The Arts Council’s Artist in the Community (AIC) Scheme, managed by Create, offers awards to enable artists and communities of place and/or interest to work together on projects.

The aim of the AIC scheme is to encourage meaningful collaboration between communities of place and/or interest and artists. Create is delighted to announce that with the support of the Arts Council, maximum award amounts will be increased in 2021 for all Artist in the Community (AIC) Scheme Research and Development awards. The maximum available timeframe has been increased from 5 months to 6.

From 2021, we will no longer offer the specifically ring-fenced Research and Development Award with Mentoring for an artist from a minority ethnic or migrant background. Rather, additional supports will be offered to all applicants, regardless of their individual background.

We acknowledge the very particular challenges for some artists in applying for funding. From 2021 we will take action towards ensuring a more equitable application process through additional support to those with disabilities or access needs. This will include translation or transcription services, or alternative modes of applying using audio or video format

In addition, this year we have introduced online application forms. The online portal allows quick loading of support materials and other relevant documentation, and has a “save and continue later” function, which allows applicants to revisit their application within 30 days of saving it.

Round One of the AIC Scheme closes on the 26th April 2021.

Application forms are now live online.

You can find further information on applying for the AIC Scheme at our website