Bradford distributes £3m in cultural grants

£3m of cultural grants will be distributed to 21 organisations in Bradford ahead of the city’s tenure as City of Culture in 2025. 

The Cultural Capital Fund (CCF) investment programme was announced in June to improve access and facilities for residents and visitors for the duration of Bradford 2025, drive footfall and create new jobs in the local arts and culture sector.

Financed by Bradford District Council, the CCF offered a two-level grant scheme based on sector needs identified during the City of Culture bid process. Cultural organisations could apply for either grants of up to £5,000 or a minimum of £50,000. 

More than twenty successful recipients have been announced including Ilkley Playhouse and Mind The Gap theatre company, which both receive £10,000. 

The Mustafa Mount Art & Culture Centre will get £300,000 toward its refurbishment and development of a permanent gallery, while the African Caribbean Achievement Project will receive £280,000 to renovate its community centre.

Dan Bates, Executive Director at Bradford 2025, said there had been an “overwhelming response” to the grant fund, with applications far exceeding the available funding. 

 “The Cultural Capital Fund is a great example of our ambition to increase investment in the cultural infrastructure within the Bradford district, giving residents and visitors alike greater opportunity to experience the arts, culture and creativity during 2025 and beyond,” said Bates.

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, said: "As stated in Bradford Council’s 10-year strategy – Culture is Our Plan – we’re striving to ensure arts, culture and heritage activities can be accessed and are inclusive for everyone across the district; something that this grant aims to do. 

“These projects provide a real legacy for Bradford and its communities.”