HANOI – The British Council opens applications for its Connections Through Culture (CTC) Grants – an exciting opportunity for artists and creative organisations in the UK and 19 partner countries across Asia-Pacific and Europe to connect, co-create and bring powerful cultural projects to life.
At a time when global collaboration is more vital than ever, the Connections Through Culture Grants offer up to £10,000 in funding for innovative, cross-cultural initiatives that challenge ideas, inspire communities, and push artistic boundaries. Whether in the form of a digital art residency, an international performance, a creative policy lab, or a community-led exhibition, these projects are designed to spark dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and promote long-term partnerships.
Last year, the programme supported 84 collaborative projects across Asia-Pacific, including 10 Viet Nam – UK collaborations, with over £741,000 in funding. In 2025, the programme expands across 19 countries to welcome even more voices and visions—especially those responding to the urgent global themes of diversity, inclusion, and climate change.
'Connections Through Culture is more than a grant – it’s a catalyst for creativity, collaboration, and change,' said Manami Yuasa, Regional Arts Director, British Council East Asia. 'We’re proud to champion projects that not only celebrate artistic innovation but also build bridges between cultures and communities.'
James Shipton, Country Director, British Council in Viet Nam, added: 'This programme empowers artists and organisations to imagine new futures together. Through shared creativity and mutual respect, we’re seeing meaningful partnerships flourish across borders – and the impact is lasting.'
Thao Nghiem, Founder & Executive Director, Vietnam Music Industry Network (VMIN), CTC 2024 grantee, shared: 'The Connections Through Culture programme has been a pivotal catalyst for VMIN and Viet Nam’s emerging music ecosystem. Through the Vietnam-UK Live Music Incubator programme, we’ve gained invaluable access to international knowledge, networks, and collaborative tools that allow us to dream and build a more inclusive, connected, and future-ready music industry. The British Council’s support is not only timely, it’s visionary, laying the foundation for long-term partnerships and sustainable pathways for Viet Nam’s music professionals to grow with global confidence.'
Applications are now open until 23 June 2025 (15:00 BST). Around 90 grants will be awarded to projects led by partnerships between UK-based and international creatives in the following participating countries: Australia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Mainland China, Georgia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Viet Nam.
The grants embrace all disciplines, from architecture to music, fashion to film, and creative technology to theatre. Projects may be digital, physical, or hybrid in format, and applicants are encouraged to think boldly and collaboratively.
Key Information:
- Applications open: 28 April 2025
- Deadline: 23 June 2025 (15:00 BST)
- Grants offered: Up to £5,000 or £10,000
- Information webinars: Starting 6 May 2025
- Project start date: October 2025
To apply and access the full eligibility criteria and application toolkit, visit: https://www.britishcouncil.vn/en/programmes/arts/connections-through-cul...
Explore the creativity of previous grantees and be inspired: https://arts.britishcouncil.org/projects/connections-through-culture-grants
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