Thank you for your interest in The Council's Cultural Partnership Grants (CPG) programme 2026-29.
This programme provides core funding to cultural organisations based in Manchester or with a track record of delivering activity in Manchester. Please check the Postcode checker for all areas covered by Manchester City Council.
The priorities for the Cultural Partnerships Grants programme have been informed by Always, Everywhere: Manchester’s Cultural Ambition 2024-2034.
What can the fund be used for?
The Cultural Partnership Grant can be used to help pay your ongoing running costs like:
- Salaries
- Rent
- Utilities
To find out more about the fund and what you can apply for, read the Cultural Partnership Grant Prospectus 2026-2029.
How much money is available in total?
Grants are available at £15,000 to £40,000 per year. (April 2026 to March 2029)
When can I apply?
- Opens: 9am, Tuesday 26 August 2025
- Closes: 12 noon, Monday 6 October 2025.
How do I apply?
- You can apply using the link to the application form at the bottom of this page.
- Please read the prospectus before you complete this form.
- There will be guidance on each question throughout the application form. You should read the guidance carefully to support you with answering the questions.
- If you prefer to draft an application offline before submitting it on Smart Survey, please request a Microsoft Word application form template from Thorsten Mayer at thorsten.mayer@manchester.gov.uk
Can I get help with my application?
- Yes, our prospectus and supporting guidance documents explain to you what we're asking for.
- A limited amount of 1-to-1 support is being made available via Manchester Community Central (Macc). Please reach out to Macc via their website.