New Zealand is strengthening its global cultural presence with a strategy reset for the Cultural Diplomacy International Programme (CDIP), where this year’s first funding round is open for expressions of interest. The Programme will invest approximately $3 million over three years, with a strong focus on economic returns for the creative and cultural sectors.

“Cultural diplomacy continues to play a vital role in raising New Zealand’s profile globally – supporting broader diplomatic, trade and tourism goals by telling our story through creativity and culture,” says Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.

“Under the new approach, CDIP investment will prioritise stronger economic benefits for the creative and cultural industries of New Zealand and more opportunities for artists and organisations to showcase their work internationally. There is also a focus on increased international investment and market access for our cultural exports.

“The updated strategy reflects and aligns with Amplify: A Creative and Cultural Strategy for New Zealand, to grow creative exports and increasing international opportunities for New Zealand’s cultural sector,” says Leauanae.

Priority regions have been agreed and include countries in Asia, North America, Europe and the Pacific.

The CDIP Steering Group (with representatives from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Tourism New Zealand, Te Puni Kōkiri, Education New Zealand and New Zealand Story) will work proactively with cultural sector agencies to identify and shape future investment opportunities –and is seeking expressions of interest from across the creative and cultural sector.

The full CDIP Strategic Plan 2026–2029, along with application information, is available on the Ministry for Culture and Heritage website.

Cultural Diplomacy International Programme