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Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) Pilot: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn if you qualify for the BIA pilot program and how the weekly artist payments work for creatives in Ireland.

This pilot program provides a steady stream of income to selected artists to help support their creative work.

Who it's for

This scheme is designed for artists who are selected to participate in this specific pilot program. Eligibility is not open to everyone automatically; instead, individuals must be chosen as part of the pilot group to receive these benefits.

What you get

If you are selected to participate, you will receive a regular weekly payment of €325. This money is intended to provide financial support for your artistic work and your practice as a creative professional.

What it costs you

While there is no direct monetary fee to join, there is a requirement to contribute to the success of the program. You must participate in research and provide reporting on your artistic output to help the government understand the impact of the payments.

The catch to know

It is important to remember that this is a pilot program. Because it is a trial, the program is limited in scope and is not always open to new applicants. This means that even if you are an artist, you may not be able to apply during every period.

How to apply

  1. Keep track of official announcements from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
  2. Check for specific windows of time when the pilot program is accepting new participants.
  3. Ensure you meet the criteria required to be considered for selection in the pilot group.
  4. Follow the official guidance provided by the government body regarding the application process.