The Hong Kong Arts Development Council (ADC) will enhance its grant system to increase support for local emerging artists and small-to-medium sized arts groups for professional development.

The new initiative will expand the existing grant system and introduce new grant schemes to match the increasing needs of the arts community.

To provide support for local emerging artists, a new category "Emerging Artist Grant" will be introduced under the umbrella of the Project Grant. This new grant scheme is mainly for young emerging artists who have mastered basic techniques in their art forms and are attempting to pursue a professional career. Those who have never received a grant from the ADC are eligible to apply.

To assist small-to-medium sized arts groups in professional development, a new grant scheme "Multi-Project Grant" will be introduced. Arts groups with proven track record are eligible to submit project proposals with strategic significance that will be carried out in the next two years. Recipients of the ADC's One-Year Grant can also apply for activities that are not being covered in their current grant agreement with the ADC.

Details of the Emerging Artist Grant and Multi-Project Grant schemes will be announced around August and September.

The Devolved Grant scheme will be further extended to cover the art form of music in addition to drama and dance. Through the engagement of more established arts groups, it provides comprehensive support to fledging artists and arts groups through activities such as art festival and competition organised by established intermediary organisations.

Besides, the ADC will provide a wide-ranging support such as internship scheme and mentorship programmes for the new breeds. For example, local and overseas internship schemes for arts practitioners in dance, music, drama and xiqu; professional guidance and filming opportunities for young talents through the Fresh Wave Short Film Competition; publishing opportunities and experts' guidance for young writers; residency and exchange programmes for visual and media arts practitioners.

Through establishing a comprehensive grant system, the ADC aims at strengthen its support to local emerging artists and small-to-medium sized arts groups for the betterment of the local arts scene.