The Discover Creative Careers programme is delivered by the Creative Careers Collective, comprising Futures For All, Creative UK and Creative Access. Funded by the UK Government, the programme aims to widen access to creative careers for young people across the UK.

Grants of up to £4,000 are available for projects supporting underserved young people aged 11-24. Applicants should identify a clear local need or gap, explain the barriers young people face and demonstrate how their proposed activities will build skills, confidence and awareness of opportunities within the creative industries.

Eligible lead applicants include UK-based creative industry organisations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), registered charities and Community Interest Companies (CICs). Individuals, freelancers and sole traders cannot apply as lead applicants, although they may participate as partners through an eligible organisation.

may participate in partnerships led by eligible creative industry organisations. Applications from the devolved nations are particularly welcomed, as are proposals that create paid traineeship opportunities across the UK.

Funding can support new or locally tailored activities that directly engage young people and connect them with creative professionals, employers and practical experiences.

Eligible activities include:

  • Industry networking events that connect young people with local creative businesses.
  • Skills, awareness and confidence-building programmes, including short placements and paid traineeships.
  • Bootcamps or practical experiences in professional creative settings.
  • Creative careers outreach delivered in youth hubs, careers hubs and other community settings.
  • Online or virtual activities that directly engage young people who cannot attend in person.
  • Travel bursaries or subsidies that help young people access existing opportunities.
  • New projects or pilots testing ways to overcome local barriers to creative careers.

Projects should help young people progress towards further training, paid placements or employment.

The deadline for applications is 30 November 2026.