Funding

Artist in the Community Scheme

The Arts Council’s Artist in the Community (AIC) Scheme, managed by Create, offers a fantastic opportunity for artists and communities across Ireland—including Waterford—to come together and create meaningful, socially engaged art. Whether you’re an artist looking to develop your collaborative practice or a community eager to partner on a creative project, the AIC Scheme provides the support you need.

What the AIC Scheme Offers

  • Research & Development Awards — Up to €3,500 for artists to explore community-based ideas over a 6-month period.

  • Development Awards with Mentoring — Up to €4,500, including €1,000 dedicated to a mentor, ideal for artists ready to connect with experienced professionals.

  • Recent Graduate Awards — Tailored for emerging artists (graduated within 3 years), up to €4,500, plus an optional €1,000 for practice development.

  • Project Realisation Awards — Up to €15,000 for communities planning an 8–12 month collaborative project with an artist.

  • Bursary Awards — Two awards of €15,000 each, supporting established collaborative artists.

  • Artist Mentoring Award — Offers mentorship opportunities to underrepresented artists or those transitioning into socially engaged arts.

  • Residencies — Promoting cultural diversity, these residencies support artists from ethnic minority backgrounds in collaborative practice.

  • Summer School on Collaborative Practice & Social Change — A peer-learning, interdisciplinary programme featuring workshops, mentoring, case studies, guest speakers, and more.

Why It Matters for Waterford

Waterford is brimming with creative spirit and vibrant community groups—from neighbourhood networks to cultural centres. Here’s how the AIC Scheme can benefit locally:

  • Artists can receive funding and mentorship to launch or deepen community-engaged projects.

  • Communities have opportunities to partner with artists and co-create meaningful work reflecting local identity.

  • Emerging and Underrepresented Artists gain access to tailored funding, mentoring programs, and inclusive opportunities.

How to Engage

  1. Explore the Schemes: If you’re an artist or group ready to collaborate, start with the AIC Awards, bursaries, and other supports.

  2. Attend Local Info Sessions: Keep an eye out for AIC Scheme information sessions where you can learn more and ask questions.

  3. Consult Case Studies & Guidelines: Gain inspiration and learn application tips from examples and guides available through Create.

  4. Connect with Waterford PPN: Collaborate through Waterford’s community networks—let’s spark inclusive arts projects that uplift local voices!

Conclusion

The Artist in the Community Scheme is a powerful vehicle for creative development, community collaboration, and social engagement. For Waterford PPN, it’s a fantastic opportunity to support both artists and communities in forging impactful partnerships. Whether it’s mounting a neighbourhood theatre production, a visual arts collaboration, or a storytelling project, the AIC Scheme offers funding, mentorship, and structure to bring great ideas to life.

Interested? Let’s connect and explore how Waterford communities and artists can apply and benefit together.