Basic Income for the Arts scheme for 2026-2029 applications open (gov.ie)

• Government decision on 10 Feb 2026 approved successor BIA scheme for 2026-2029
• Applications opened 15 April 2026 for 2,000 artists
• Professional artists based in Ireland, tax compliant, self-employed eligible
• Public consultation in Aug/Sep 2025 received over 17,000 responses

"The Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) successor scheme for 2026-2029 opened for applications on 15 April 2026. Funded by the Irish government, it provides payments to 2,000 professional artists based in Ireland. The scheme follows a pilot that ran from 2022 to February 2026. Applicants must be self-employed, tax compliant, and demonstrate professional practice. A public consultation in 2025 received over 17,000 responses. Guidelines are available on gov.ie."