Capacity Building for First Nations Organisations

First Nations led small to medium arts organisations are invited to submit a proposal for a one-off capacity building investment for the 2026 calendar year. This one-off investment is only eligible to legally constituted organisations or enterprises. 

The purpose of the program is to provide small to medium First Nations arts organisations with one-off capacity building investment to assist with program and artistic delivery and/or operations to the end of 2026.  

The program will support arts organisations or organisations that deliver services in support of First Nations arts and culture activity.  

Organisations approved for this investment will be eligible to apply later in 2026 for a two-year investment for 2027 and 2028. This investment is designed to assist organisations  build capacity in the areas of planning and program design in the lead up to the two-year investment opportunity.  

Organisations can apply for $60,000.  

Supported activities must take place between 1 June 2026 and 31 December 2026.  

Who can apply 

Only organisations may apply to this category. 

Organisations must: 

• identify as an Australian First Nations organisation with at least 51% First Nations board representation
• demonstrate a history of working and supporting Australian artists and/or arts workers who identify as Australian First Nations
• be based in Australia
• only submit one application to this grant initiative
• adhere to First Nations Cultural Protocols and include any relevant documentation in the application.