Culture and communities

Cultural events and activities in Essex and community and volunteering sector initiatives

Visit Explore Essex to find cultural events, activities, community engagement and funding opportunities.

Arts and Cultural Fund

Artists and cultural organisations can apply for grants between £2,500 and £30,000 from the Arts and Cultural Fund. The grants can be used to deliver projects that support and rejuvenate the arts and culture sector in Essex.

The Arts and Cultural Fund is open to:

  • individual artists
  • co-operatives
  • charities and trusts
  • community interest companies
  • social enterprises
  • public organisations

Applications are now closed.  The next round of funding will be launched in the Autumn of 2024.

Visit the Explore Essex website to apply or to find out more information.

Voluntary and community organisations

Many of the local community and voluntary organisations provide support to residents of Essex. Find your local community or voluntary organisation.

The Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant

Find out how the council supports armed forces and veterans with the Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant.

Cultural Strategy

Our Cultural Strategy lays out our plan to nurture and promote arts and culture by working with other authorities, organisations and communities.