Arts and Culture – Application Deadline 10 November

The first funding area focuses on Arts and Culture, with an application deadline of 10 November 2026. The main objective is to increase public participation in a diverse range of arts and cultural activities, including by expanding cultural offerings, improving access and actively engaging local communities.

Partnership with organisations from the donor countries is required. Polish organisations lead the projects, which must be carried out in cooperation with partners from Iceland, Norway or Liechtenstein.

A total of €3.5 million is available under this call, with grants ranging from €100,000 to €500,000 per project. At least 30% of the funding allocation is earmarked for projects led by non-governmental organisations.

Projects may include cultural and artistic activities that increase the availability and accessibility of culture and encourage local communities to participate. The call also seeks projects that strengthen professional capacity within the cultural sector and support artists and cultural professionals, with particular emphasis on young and emerging artists.

The programme also encourages projects that use arts and culture to promote understanding of freedom of artistic expression, foster cultural dialogue, counter disinformation and reduce inequalities. Projects may also address social isolation and distrust and contribute to greater social cohesion.

Cultural Heritage – Application Deadline 31 December

The second funding area, Cultural Heritage, aims to revitalise cultural heritage, ensure its sustainable use and strengthen the involvement of local communities.

The application deadline is 31 December 2026, with more than €64 million available for projects under this call. Grants ranging from €1 million to €3.5 million are available for individual projects.

Projects may focus on the preservation, restoration and new uses of cultural heritage. Emphasis is also placed on intangible cultural heritage, including traditions, knowledge, practices, skills and craftsmanship.

Projects should improve access to cultural heritage and strengthen its connection with local communities.

Polish organisations lead the project applications, while the projects can provide a wide range of opportunities for cooperation with Icelandic cultural institutions and professionals.

Opportunities to Find Partners

Cooperation between Icelandic and Polish organisations has been an important part of cultural projects supported by the EEA Grants, and the new programme provides opportunities to build on and further strengthen these connections.

Polish organisations looking for Icelandic partners can contact Rannís for assistance. Likewise, Icelandic cultural institutions and other organisations interested in cooperation with partners in Poland can contact Rannís for information and support in establishing partnerships.

Interested organisations are encouraged to explore the calls well in advance and begin discussions with potential partners at an early stage. Projects supported under previous EEA Grants funding periods can also provide useful examples of the wide range of cultural initiatives that have received support to date.

Application deadlines:

• Arts and Culture: 10 November 2026

• Cultural Heritage: 31 December 2026

Further information about the EEA Grants, the calls for proposals and opportunities for bilateral cooperation is and the EEA and Norway Grants website.