Arts OutWest is excited to launch the first year of the Arts OutWest Cultural Fund Microgrants and is calling for artists and groups to apply.This new program supports locally driven arts and heritage activities across the NSW Central West and is made possible by generous public donations.
In 2026, two funding streams are available:
- Up to $1000 for individual artists
- Up to $2500 for groups, including arts organisations, collectives, local councils, arts and heritage businesses and artist–organisation partnerships.
Applications close at 5 pm on Monday, 20 April 2026.
“Microgrants aim to create artist employment, spark new creative activity, and make meaningful community engagement,” said Arts OutWest Executive Director Kylie Shead.
Activities that might be funded include community art projects, workshops, exhibitions, performances, talks, story development, artist residencies, creative experiments, the creation of new work, and more.
Projects must take place between June and December 2026 and occur within the local government areas of Bathurst Region, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
Applications will be assessed on artistic merit, community impact, planning and viability, and, where relevant, career growth.
All applicants must discuss their idea with Arts OutWest before applying.
Full guidelines, FAQs, and the application form are available now at: https://artsoutwest.org.au/pf/arts-outwest-cultual-fund-microgrants/
Arts OutWest will hold an online Microgrants information session on Wednesday, 1 April at 5.30 pm. Book via the artsoutwest.org.au website.
Arts OutWest is the regional arts development organisation for the NSW Central West, supported by the NSW Government (Create NSW), the Australian Government (IVAIS), 12 local governments and Charles Sturt University.
