The British Council has announced a new funding round under its Cultural Protection Fund (CPF), offering grants of up to £500,000 to support projects aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage threatened by conflict, climate change, and other risks across South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and East Africa.
Cultural Protection Fund Celebrates Tenth Year
Now celebrating its tenth year, the Cultural Protection Fund continues to play a significant role in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening communities by protecting sites, traditions, and historical assets that connect people to their history, identity, and shared heritage. Pakistan remains among the eligible countries for the latest funding cycle, reflecting the fund’s longstanding commitment to cultural preservation in the country.
Previous CPF Projects in Pakistan
Over the years, the CPF has supported a wide range of heritage conservation initiatives in Pakistan, including the preservation of Buddhist rock heritage in Swat, restoration of historic Silk Route buildings in Gilgit-Baltistan, conservation work at Karachi’s iconic Khalikdina Hall, protection of maritime heritage in the Indus Delta, and the safeguarding of traditional cultural practices in the Hazara region.
Country Director Expresses Confidence
James Hampson, Country Director of the British Council Pakistan, said the fund has enabled organisations and communities across the country to protect and celebrate their cultural heritage. He expressed confidence that the latest funding round would support a new generation of impactful projects dedicated to preserving Pakistan’s rich and diverse cultural legacy.
Application Details and Deadline
The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest is 20 July 2026 at 23:59 BST. To support prospective applicants, the British Council will host an online information session on 1 July 2026 to provide guidance on eligibility criteria and application requirements. Eligible organisations working in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and several countries across the Middle East, North Africa, and East Africa may apply for grants of up to £500,000. Detailed application guidelines and eligibility requirements are available through the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund programme.
