Artists and creatives in Gosport, New Forest and rushmoor are now able to apply for grants of up to £3,000 as part of a new commissioning scheme launched today by Hampshire Cultural Trust (HCT).
Under the Creative Ground: Open Commissions programme, which is offered by HCT as part of its remit as a National Portfolio Organisation (NPO for Arts Council England (ACE), applicants can apply for support in connection to early stage creative development, experimentation or place-based practice. The commissioning is designed to help creatives test ideas, build skills, and strengthen connections with local communities and cultural networks.
HCT's Senior Cultural Development Manager, Amy Whittlesea commented:
"Over the last 12 months we have been piloting our commissioning model, and have seen how transformative small-scale investment can be in supporting artists to take the next step in their practice. We're delighted to be widening the opportunity this year, giving even more artists and creatives the space to experiment, grow their practice and connect with communities in our three priority places: Gosport, New Forest and Rushmoor"
"We are exited to see how these commissions will help to further animate new places and open up new ways for our local communities to dip a toe into arts and culture"
Applications are now open, and will be closing on 18 July 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by 31 July 2026, and commissioned work must be concluded by February 2027. Applicants can submit proposals in written, audio or video format and are encouraged to book a one-to-one development conversation with the Cultural Development team prior to applying.