The British Council has opened a new funding round under its Cultural Protection Fund (CPF), offering grants of up to £500,000 for projects focused on protecting cultural heritage at risk across South Asia and other participating regions.
The latest funding cycle includes Pakistan among 17 eligible countries and aims to support initiatives that preserve historical identity, strengthen communities, and safeguard cultural assets threatened by conflict and climate change.
New Funding Opportunity for Cultural Heritage Protection
The Cultural Protection Fund has entered its tenth year and continues to support projects that protect vulnerable cultural heritage while helping communities preserve their historical and social identity.
This latest round invites organisations working in eligible countries to submit proposals for projects that address risks facing cultural heritage sites, traditions, and historical assets.
Pakistan remains one of the participating countries under the South Asia category, alongside Bangladesh and Nepal.
Cultural Projects Supported in Pakistan
Over recent years, the fund has supported a range of preservation initiatives across Pakistan.
These projects have focused on conserving important historical locations and strengthening cultural continuity through local participation.
Examples of supported work include the conservation of Buddhist rock heritage in Swat, restoration efforts involving historic Silk Route buildings in Gilgit-Baltistan, preservation work at Karachi’s Khalikdina Hall, protection of maritime heritage in the Indus Delta, and safeguarding Hazara cultural traditions.
Through these initiatives, the programme seeks to connect communities with their history while promoting long-term cultural resilience.
British Council Highlights Continued Support
Speaking about the new funding round, British Council Pakistan Country Director James Hampson highlighted the importance of supporting heritage initiatives across the country.
“The Cultural Protection Fund supports organisations and communities across Pakistan to protect and preserve cultural heritage. We are looking forward to supporting a new generation of projects through this year’s funding round.”
The programme continues to encourage local organisations to develop sustainable projects that strengthen cultural preservation efforts and create lasting community impact.
Application Timeline and Information Session
Organisations interested in applying must complete their Expressions of Interest before the submission deadline.
Applications for the Cultural Protection Fund will close on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 23:59 BST.
Applicants are encouraged to review the official application guidance and frequently asked questions before preparing submissions.
Additionally, an online information session will be organised to help applicants better understand the requirements and strengthen project proposals.
The session is scheduled for Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM BST.
Funding Amount and Eligible Regions
Eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to £500,000.
Projects must focus on protecting cultural heritage at risk within participating countries.
Eligible regions include:
South Asia
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Nepal
Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
- Egypt
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Palestine
- Syria
- Tunisia
- Yemen
East Africa
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
The new funding round reflects continued efforts to support cultural preservation and ensure heritage remains protected for future generations despite growing environmental and regional challenges.
