Cultural policy in Italy

Promoting Dutch culture is a team effort. The Embassy and Consulate General are part of a larger network of funds and institutions that have the task of promoting the internationalisation of the cultural and creative sector of the Netherlands. The Dutch diplomatic missions are the first point of contact for Italian cultural organisations to develop projects with the Netherlands. 
Italy is very important to the Netherlands. Italy has always been among the top countries for the export of Dutch cultural projects and for the number of international arts projects financed by the public sector in the Netherlands. Not only thanks to the presence of international events such as the Milan Design Week and the Venice Biennale, but also for the lively cultural sector, with its high artistic level and an attentive and curious audience.

Objectives

The cultural policy of the Netherlands focuses on three objectives:

1. strengthening cultural collaborations and supporting Dutch presentations in Italy
2. strengthening bilateral relations through culture
3. contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

In particular, our attention focuses on projects dedicated to climate issues, initiatives that reflect on the phenomenon of migration and activities that strengthen market opportunities for the creative sector.

Approach

We will prioritise projects that are in line with our policy priorities. In 2026, these will be: bilateral cultural cooperation, talent development and social themes.

1. We are particularly interested in projects in which Dutch and Italian cultural organisations collaborate to explore new development opportunities for artists and creators. This means projects focused on developing new methods and practices that gain added value through international collaboration. 
2. In addition, we are looking for projects that aim to create development opportunities for creatives and cultural professionals, enabling them to embark on new paths. This could include residencies, knowledge transfer and mentoring. A public presentation is preferred.
3. Finally, we prioritise cultural projects in which Dutch and Italian partners collaborate on social issues. This particularly concerns the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, and climate action. Reflection on migration also remains a key theme. In general, we are interested in projects that introduce culture to audiences who have little or no exposure to culture, or for whom it is not a given. We are looking for projects with a clear positive social impact on those involved.

Special programmes 
In 2026, we will be working on special programmes in the fields of design, literature and the performing arts (particularly dance and theatre, including for children and young people). To receive support, initiatives must fall within the programmes we are developing together with our partners in the Netherlands. 

What we can't do

It is not possible to support purely scientific projects, public relations or commercial activities. We exclude support for scientific conferences, information brochures about the Netherlands, gadgets, linguistic and cultural awareness courses. We will not financially support projects by amateur artists. We do not support activities aimed at strengthening tourism or with a main focus on popular or folk culture.

Annual program

Every year we decide on a program consisting of some major initiatives linked to particular anniversaries or opportunities and regular initiatives with specific attention to:

• the strengthening of collaborations between Dutch and Italian cultural organisations
• talent development through residency projects, tutoring, mentoring, etc
• projects that reflect on social and urgent issues

The program is the result of a dialogue with many partners in Italy and the Netherlands. We are always open to entering into dialogue with cultural operators to verify new possibilities. The fastest way is to reach out to us via mail.