Introduction

The Scottish Arts Council is the principal channel of public funding for the arts in Scotland.  We receive most of our funding from the Scottish Government.  As an 'arm's length' body we are independent from but accountable to the Scottish Government.

We also distribute funds from the National Lottery to the arts in Scotland.  The main aim of lottery funding is to support arts projects which make an important and lasting difference to the quality of life for the general public.

We provide information and advice as well as funding.  We work at an international, national and local level and aim to:

• increase the participation in the arts
• support artists in Scotland, to fulfil their creative and business potential
• place the arts, culture and creativity at the heart of learning.

We have a Corporate Plan (2007-2009) which sets out our overall vision and aims and an annual Business Plan (2007/08) and Budget which describes our detailed workplan and framework for our spending.  Our Corporate Plan is also available in printed form from the Help Desk.

Our strategies may, however, be affected by other factors such as evolving developments within the arts world; possible constraints on public spending and inevitably, unforeseen events.  If there are changes, we undertake to communicate these through our website and direct contact where appropriate.

We accept applications from individuals and organisations.  More details can be found within the apply section.

If you need funding between £500 and £10,000 you should consider applying to Awards for All.  This is a joint programme to help small organisations, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Scottish Arts Council, SportScotland and the Big Lottery Fund.  For further information visit Awards for All or telephone 0845 600 2040.

Where do I find the information I need

Step by step guide  A step-by-step guide to the funding application process.

Our funding sources Information about where our funding comes from and relevance to applications.

Equal opportunities Information about equal opportunities and related requirements for funding applications.

Important policies Important information about the Freedom of Information Act (Scotland) 2002 and Data protection relating to submitting an application.

Appeals Guidance on the Scottish Arts Council's appeal process.