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Creative New Zealand is currently accepting applications for its Early Career Fund 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
The Creative New Zealand Early Career Fund is designed to support artists and practitioners who are at an early stage of their creative careers. The fund enables recipients to develop new artistic work, build skills, explore new ideas, and share their mahi with communities across Aotearoa. The programme recognises that early career artists often face barriers to funding, professional development, and visibility. It aims to provide flexible, low-barrier support that helps emerging creatives grow their practice and confidence.
Applicants may request funding of up to $10,000 to support:
• Creating, presenting, or distributing artistic work
• Developing new knowledge or artistic skills
• Professional development and practice growth
• Paying a mentor to support artistic development
Artists and practitioners of any age who are:
You do not need a track record to apply.
You can apply as:
If you’ve previously received an Early Career Fund grant, consider whether the Creative Fellowship Fund or Creative Impact Fund might now be a better fit for supporting the next stage of your artistic development.
Who cannot apply
Apply for Creative New Zealand Early Career Fund
