About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP) is a government initiative designed to revive and strengthen the creative sector following the economic impact of COVID-19. The program focuses on generating employment opportunities while supporting sustainable cultural and artistic initiatives.
PESP 7 specifically encourages projects that:
Create jobs within the arts and culture sector
Generate additional employment opportunities beyond the sector
Promote sustainability and long-term impact
Support youth participation and vulnerable groups
Who Can Apply?
The funding call is open to:
Professional networking events
Individual artists and cultural practitioners
Registered arts organizations
Community arts centres
Applicants must be actively involved in one or more of the following disciplines:
Craft
Dance
Literature
Multidisciplinary arts
Music
Musical theatre
Visual arts
Only one application per individual or organization will be accepted.
Types of Projects Supported
Applicants are encouraged to submit a wide range of creative and cultural initiatives, including:
Art creation and production
Workshops and training programs
Exhibitions and showcases
Performances and festivals
Scriptwriting and content development
Residencies and collaborative projects
Projects that promote South African Indigenous art forms and intellectual property development are strongly encouraged. All proposals must demonstrate clear community impact and value.
Visual Art & Design
Funding Categories and Grant Amounts
The PESP 7 program offers funding across three categories:
Major Art or Culture Projects
Funding: Up to R800,000
Must create at least 70 job opportunities
Should demonstrate national reach, audience development, and capacity building
Strong focus on youth and vulnerable groups
Medium Scale Projects
Funding: Up to R500,000
Must create at least 40 job opportunities
Should include audience development and skills-building components
Focus on youth participation and inclusion
Other Arts or Culture Projects
Funding: Up to R300,000
Assessed based on artistic merit
Should benefit youth and vulnerable communities
Applications exceeding the maximum funding limits will not be considered.
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online through the NAC grants management system portal before the deadline.
Professional networking events
Applicants without internet access may request manual application forms via email or phone. However, manual submissions must be delivered by May 29, 2026 at 17:00, while online applications close at 23:59 on the same day.
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Key Requirements for Applicants
To be considered, applicants must:
Propose projects with clear employment creation outcomes
Demonstrate sustainability beyond the funding period
Show measurable community impact
Align with NAC funding guidelines
Ensure all required documentation is submitted on time
All approved projects must be completed by March 31, 2027.
Important Notes
Funding decisions are made at the discretion of the NAC
Applicants are not automatically entitled to funding
Panel and Council members are not eligible to apply
Non-compliant applications will receive early decline notifications
Detailed feedback can be requested from assigned Arts Development Officers
Applicants also have the option to submit formal appeals through the NAC if necessary.
Visual Art & Design
Why This Opportunity Matters
The PESP 7 funding call represents a significant opportunity for creatives to access financial support while contributing to economic recovery and job creation in South Africa’s cultural sector.
By prioritizing employment, sustainability, and inclusion, the program not only supports artists but also strengthens communities and promotes long-term cultural development.
Final Thoughts
The PESP 7 programme is a powerful platform for artists and organizations looking to scale their impact while generating employment opportunities. Applicants are encouraged to develop strong, community-focused proposals and submit their applications well before the deadline.
With funding of up to R800,000 available, this initiative offers a valuable opportunity to bring creative ideas to life while contributing to the broader development of the arts sector.
How to apply