First Nations Cultural Tourism Creativity Fund 2026-27

The purpose of the First Nations Cultural Tourism Creativity Fund is to support the growth of a strong, sustainable and NSW First Nations-led cultural tourism sector in New South Wales by:

• Supporting NSW First Nations artists, creatives, organisations and businesses to develop, showcase and deliver culturally strong, tourism-ready experiences.
• Increasing the availability, visibility and quality of NSW First Nations cultural and creative tourism experiences across NSW.
• Strengthening partnerships between arts, culture, and tourism sectors to improve market access, collaboration and participation.
• Delivering economic, community and cultural outcomes led by and for NSW First Nations communities.

The intended long-term outcomes of the program are:

• Increased capability of NSW First Nations artists, creatives and organisations
• Growth in the number and diversity of NSW First Nations tourism-ready cultural experiences
• Stronger market connections and visitor engagement
• Increased participation in the NSW visitor economy
• Improved economic and cultural outcomes for NSW First Nations communities.

Create NSW aims to allocate 50% of the program budget to applicants from regional NSW.   

Types of projects funded under this grant

All funded activities must be First Nations-led and demonstrate appropriate cultural authority, culture governance and community support where relevant.

Tier 1 - DEVELOP

Projects at this tier focus on developing, testing and preparing First Nations arts, cultural and tourism experiences

Value: $20,000 to $50,000 (excluding GST)

Funding supports early-stage arts, cultural and tourism projects and activities, including:

• concept development
• product development
• business and capability building
• market testing
• pilot visitor experiences
• partnership development
• feasibility and planning activities.

Tier 2 - GROW

Projects at this tier focus on expanding, strengthening and growing established First Nations arts, cultural and tourism experiences

Value: $50,001 to $100,000 (excluding GST)

Funding supports existing arts, cultural and tourism projects and activities ready to expand, launch or scale:

• expansion of existing tourism experiences
• development of tourism-ready products and services
• market development and audience growth
• visitor experience enhancements
• strategic partnerships and collaborations
• delivery of larger-scale projects and experiences.