ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Immersive Arts Secures £8.5m to Support UK Artists Through 2030

institutional · 2026-09-14

Immersive Arts has obtained more than £8.5 million in funding to expand its UK initiative aimed at assisting artists utilizing immersive technologies through 2030. This second phase includes upwards of £4.7 million designated for grants, training, and professional growth. Initially launched in 2024 with £6 million, the initiative has already distributed over £3.24 million to 225 creative teams and involved more than 2,300 artists. The upcoming phase will emphasize commercialization and the establishment of sustainable businesses, offering tailored guidance and networking opportunities. This announcement was made by Professor Verity McIntosh during The Big Thing event in Llandudno, Wales, held from 9th to 11th September, with funding from UKRI, Arts Council England, and others. Ruth McCullough noted the increased development opportunities throughout the UK.

Key facts

  • Immersive Arts secured over £8.5 million in new funding to support UK artists through 2030.
  • More than £4.7 million of the second-phase funding will go directly to artists.
  • The programme launched in 2024 with £6 million in initial funding.
  • Immersive Arts has awarded over £3.24 million in grants to 225 creative teams.
  • Over 2,300 artists across the UK have participated in the programme.
  • The funding was announced at The Big Thing in Llandudno, Wales, from 9th–11th September.
  • Funders include the Arts and Humanities Research Council (UKRI), Arts Council England, Arts Council of Wales, Creative Scotland, and Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
  • An interactive map of UK immersive production facilities and new research 'Joining the Dots' were unveiled at The Big Thing.

Entities

Artists

  • Verity McIntosh
  • Ruth McCullough
  • Christopher Smith

Institutions

  • Immersive Arts
  • Arts and Humanities Research Council
  • UKRI
  • Arts Council England
  • Arts Council of Wales
  • Creative Scotland
  • Arts Council of Northern Ireland
  • National Lottery
  • Watershed
  • The Big Thing

Locations

  • Llandudno
  • Wales
  • England
  • Scotland
  • Northern Ireland
  • UK

Sources