British Council Opens Connections Through Culture Grants 2025 for Artists and Creative Organisations in Kazakhstan
The British Council offers up to £10,000 through its Connections Through Culture (CTC) Grants for Kazakhstani innovative and cross-cultural initiatives, DKnews.kz reports
Around 90 grants will be awarded to projects led by partnerships between the UK and Kazakhstan.
The British Council – the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, opens applications for its Connections Through Culture (CTC) Grants — an exciting opportunity for artists and creative organisations across Asia-Pacific, Europe and now Central Asia to connect, co-create and bring powerful cultural projects to life.
At a time when global collaboration is more vital than ever, the Connections Through Culture Grants offer up to £10,000 in funding for Kazakhstani innovative, cross-cultural initiatives that challenge ideas, inspire communities, and push artistic boundaries. Whether in the form of a digital art residency, an international performance, a creative policy lab, or a community-led exhibition, these projects are designed to spark dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and promote long-term partnerships.
Last year, the programme supported 84 collaborative projects across Asia-Pacific, with over £741,000 in funding. In 2025, the programme expands across 19 countries to welcome even more voices and visions—especially those responding to the urgent global themes of diversity, inclusion, and climate change.
“Connections Through Culture is more than a grant—it’s a catalyst for creativity, collaboration, and change,” said Gala Koretskaya, Head of Arts and Creative Economy in Central Asia, British Council.
Robert Taylor, Country Director, British Council Kazakhstan, added: “This programme empowers artists and organisations to imagine new futures together. Through shared creativity and mutual respect, we’re seeing meaningful partnerships flourish across borders—and the impact is lasting.”
Applications are now open until 23 June 2025 (15:00 BST). Around 90 grants will be awarded to projects led by partnerships between the UK and Kazakhstan. The grants embrace all disciplines, from architecture to music, fashion to film, and creative technology to theatre. Projects may be digital, physical, or hybrid in format, and applicants are encouraged to think boldly and collaboratively.
Key Information:
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Applications open: 28 April 2025
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Deadline: 23 June 2025 (15:00 BST)
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Grants offered: Up to £5,000 or £10,000
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Information webinars: Starting 6 May 2025
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Project start date: October 2025
To apply and access the full eligibility criteria and application toolkit, visit: Connections Through Culture 2025 | British Council Arts
Explore the creativity of previous grantees and be inspired: https://arts.britishcouncil.org/projects/connections-through-culture-grants
