Back to news
NEWS

Applicant guidance for the National Portfolio Investment Programme, 2028–2033 has been published by Arts Council England

A more straightforward application process has been launched for the next National Portfolio, set to last five years from April 2028 to March 2033

23 September 2026

Share

Back of a South Asian dancer dressed in traditional orange dress with hair jewellery. In front of colourful graffiti walls. One arm above her head and one arm stretched out.

One Dance UK, Dani Bower

Excellence will be central to the National Portfolio Investment Programme, with applicants able to demonstrate their creative ambitions, in their own words.

Decision-making will also be informed by more community voice, local expertise and feedback from Mayoral Strategic Authorities, ensuring the best outcomes for people in postcodes everywhere.

Applicants are encouraged to review the materials published, sign up for a webinar if they want to learn more, and start preparing their application on an offline version of the Application Form, ahead of applications opening on 20 October.

The Arts Council's Access Support and Customer Services teams are also available to support.

Find out more on the Applicant Hub online