Deloitte Photo Grant 2026 — €25,000 photography grant for artists under 35 and exhibition at Triennale Milano
Some photography competitions offer the chance of being published or receiving a brief mention in the media. Others help participants develop a fully-fledged artistic project and present it for the first time within an international professional context. It is precisely this approach that underpins the Deloitte Photo Grant—a European open call for young photographers and visual artists working in contemporary photography and socially sensitive themes.
The theme for 2026 is Proximities — an exploration of new forms of distance and connection in the modern world. The organisers invite participants to reflect, through photography, on human relationships, digital isolation, social fragmentation, memory and vulnerability.What is important here is not only the visual language, but also the project’s ability to construct a meaningful artistic statement.
The winner of the Open Call receives €25,000 to realise their project, the opportunity to exhibit at the Triennale Milano, and the chance to present the completed project in the next season of the Deloitte Photo Grant. For emerging artists, this represents not only financial support but also a rare opportunity to enter the international professional context of contemporary photography.
Who should apply
The Open Call is especially suitable for:
— photographers and visual artists under 35;
— creators of documentary and long-term projects;
— artists working on themes of identity, migration, human rights, memory and social change;
— creators of mixed media and contemporary photography;
— those who wish to present their project to an international jury and reach beyond the local scene.
The organisers are not seeking a finished series, but rather a project concept that the winner will be able to realise through the grant. This makes the competition particularly suitable for artists at the research or early stages of their work.
What you need to apply
To apply, you must provide:
— a project description of up to 1,500 characters;
— a brief project budget of up to 1,500 characters;
— a portfolio of up to 10 images;
— a CV;
— a headshot;
— a letter of recommendation from a curator, gallery owner, photo editor or other professional in the field of photography.
The portfolio may include both images from the project itself and other works by the artist that help to understand their visual approach and artistic practice.
It is also important to note that the photographs must not have been previously published and must not be entered into other competitions or public exhibitions. However, AI-generated images are permitted if the artist explicitly states this in the project description.
Why this programme could be important for young photographers
The Deloitte Photo Grant is supported by a strong international network of cultural institutions.The jury includes Denis Curti, Alec Soth, Bruce Gilden, Suzanne Cotter, Barbara Čeferin and other curators, photographers and directors of major cultural institutions.
For emerging artists, this is not only an opportunity to secure funding, but also a chance to showcase their work to people who truly influence the international contemporary photography scene.
The deadline for applications is 14 June 2026.
