Programme and Presentation Grant awarded to 239 organisations

From small-scale venues to festivals and new presentation spaces: the results of the first round of the Programme and Presentation Grant have been announced. In total, 239 organisations will receive a grant for a period of two years. Through this grant, we support organisations that present a broad and diverse range of professional performing arts across the country.

The grant consists of two parts: geographical spread (part a) and distinctive programming (part b). Organisations chose in advance which part they would apply for.

In the first round, the Fund assessed 390 applications. This high number shows that many organisations are looking for support in programming professional performing arts. Interest was strong in both parts of the grant. In total, 171 organisations will receive a grant under part a (geographical spread), and 68 organisations under part b (distinctive programming).

Under part a, 1.2 million euros is available each year. Within this part, the Fund distributes the budget across the different regions of the country. Activities taking place in the G4 municipalities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht were not eligible under this part. In this way, the Fund encourages the spread of professional performing arts beyond the four largest cities.

Within part a, 84% of applications were awarded a grant. In the eastern region, relatively fewer applications could be awarded due to the high number of applications submitted.

Under part b, 505,000 euros is available each year. Organisations programming activities in the G4 municipalities were eligible to apply under this part. Demand for this part far exceeded the available budget. As a result, the Fund was able to award 37% of applications under this part.

Within part a – focused on broad geographical spread – the awarded organisations present a rich and varied picture of performing arts initiatives in the European Netherlands and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The map below shows where the Fund contributes to programming.

Organisations present this programming in many different ways: in churches or community centres, at small-scale venues, during festivals, or across multiple locations.

Across the Kingdom, organisations are committed to bringing professional performing arts closer to audiences: from Feerwerd to Goes, from Reimerswaal to Den Helder – and from Bonaire to Haaksbergen.

Within part b, the Fund supports organisations that explore new approaches to programming, presentation and audience engagement. These initiatives push boundaries between disciplines, genres and contexts, creating space for different voices and new forms.

Below are six examples of activities made possible through this support.

Through this grant, we create space for programming in all parts of the Kingdom. From small-scale venues to festivals and new presentation formats: these awards show the diversity of the performing arts landscape in the Netherlands and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Organisations reach a wide range of audiences while exploring new genres, formats and ways of presenting work.

Curious which organisations received a grant? View the awarded organisations by part:

Part a: Geographical spread
Part b: Distinctive programming