Funding Boost for Geelong Artists: Professional Development Grants Now Open

Geelong creatives, this one’s for you: a $2,000 grant can go towards your next creative project.

Applications are now open for the City of Greater Geelong’s 2025–26 Artists and Creatives Professional Development Grants, offering local practitioners funding to build skills, strengthen creative practice and invest in professional growth.

Opening 17 January 2026, the grants support individual artists and creatives living permanently within the Greater Geelong municipality, with funding available for a wide range of professional and skills development activities. Applications close 16 February 2026 at 5.00pm, with successful applicants notified on 2 April 2026.

Artists and Creative Professional Development Grant

Open Date: Now open a of 17 January

Closing Date: 16 February 2026, 5pm

Submit your application: Start here.

Keep up to date with all things arts, exhibitions and stage here.

 

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Eligible applicants include sole traders with an active ABN, as well as individual artists or creatives without an ABN who are working with a not-for-profit entity. Individuals can apply for up to $2,000, with a total funding pool of $15,000 available this round.

Funding can be used for activities including short courses, workshops, masterclasses, conferences, arts residencies, internships, work placements and structured mentoring, as well as associated travel, accommodation and registration costs. Arts-related business training is also eligible, recognising the growing need for sustainable creative careers. These grants have been pivotal in supporting the vibrant Geelong arts ecosystem with major outcomes for career and emerging artists.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the grant guidelines carefully and to discuss their proposed activity with council staff prior to applying. Supporting documentation is required, and applicants are advised to save their application progress regularly to avoid time-out issues.

Applications are now open — don’t miss the deadline.

For guidelines, eligibility details and application access, visit the City of Greater Geelong website here. Enquiries can be directed to communitygrants@geelongcity.vic.gov.au
or 03 5272 5560.