The European Union National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC) has launched the Spaces of Culture 2026 programme, offering new opportunities for cultural organisations and creative professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa to collaborate with European partners.

The initiative is part of the Africa–Europe Partnerships for Culture, a broader programme designed to strengthen cultural cooperation, dialogue, and creative collaboration between the two regions. 


Funding for Cultural Projects

Through the programme, selected projects can receive grants of up to €50,000 to develop innovative cultural initiatives in African countries. 


The funding supports projects that promote:

  • Artistic collaboration
  • Cultural exchange
  • Community engagement
  • Dialogue between European and African creatives


Projects are expected to be developed through equal partnerships between local organisations, European cultural institutes, and EU delegations. 


Focus on Collaboration and Innovation

Spaces of Culture is designed to explore new models of international cultural cooperation, encouraging artists, cultural organisations, and civil society groups to co-create projects that respond to local challenges and opportunities. 


The programme prioritises:

  • Mutual learning between Africa and Europe
  • Inclusive cultural spaces
  • Sustainable cultural initiatives
  • Cross-border collaboration in arts, design, media, and performance


Projects supported under the programme typically run for about one year, with activities scheduled between September 2025 and August 2026. 


Why This Matters

Africa’s creative industry is growing rapidly, and initiatives like Spaces of Culture aim to expand opportunities for artists, cultural organisations, and creative entrepreneurs.

By encouraging collaboration between African and European partners, the programme hopes to create new platforms for creativity, innovation, and cultural dialogue.

For many creatives and cultural organisations in Africa, the initiative could open doors to international networks, funding, and global visibility.


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