Julia Lopez MP has welcomed the opening of the fourth round of the Government's Cultural Development Fund.

Venues across England are invited to apply for up to £5 million from a £15.2 million funding pool. The initiative aims to boost access to the arts and culture, fostering economic growth, job creation, and support for cultural institutions. These projects, centered on transformative, place-based initiatives, not only attract tourists and businesses but also bring significant social benefits.

Since 2019, the Cultural Development Fund has allocated £76.8 million to 20 projects, visibly enhancing communities nationwide, including locations like Berwick-upon-Tweed, Worcester, Barnsley, Plymouth, Stockport, and the Isle of Wight. This round is notable for allowing London projects to apply for the first time since 2019, expanding the fund's reach to a broader range of places.

Administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, the fund has released guidance for potential applicants. The online portal for organizations to register Expressions of Interest opens on February 5, 2024. To apply, please see the Arts Council England website here - https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/our-open-funds/cultural-investment-fund