MCKD launches grant program to support freelancers, SMEs
Source: The National
The Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development (MCKD) has launched a programme to support freelancers and SMEs in the creative industry, helping out those that have been impacted by the coronavirus crisis.
Freelancers, entrepreneurs and small businesses in the cultural and creative industries can apply for the grant on the MCKD's website beginning on Sunday, May 17. Applications will be open for seven days.
The grant is open to freelancers and SMEs in the UAE. Emiratis and residents can apply. Individuals can receive between Dh15,000 to 50,000 in aid.
Applicants could range from small visual arts companies to freelance photographers and videographers. More specifically, those who are eligible for the fund include individuals and entities working in the following fields: natural and cultural heritage, performing arts, visual arts, audiovisual and interactive media, literature, press and design. The full list of eligible professions can be found on the MCKD’s website.
The requests will be reviewed by a committee that will consider factors such as the amount of lost work or projects, the financial impact of Covid-19 on the individual or entity and the amount of content and work they produced in 2019. Priority will be given to those most affected by the crisis.
