Ireland Is Making Basic Income for Artists Program Permanent
a day ago
- #arts-funding
- #UBI
- #basic-income
- Ireland's basic income for artists program will become permanent starting in 2026.
- Selected artists receive a weekly payment of approximately $375 (about $1,500 per month).
- There are 2,000 spots available, with applications opening in September 2026.
- The program was initially launched in 2022 to support artists post-pandemic.
- Eligibility for the pilot required proof of professional cultural work (e.g., income from art sales, professional membership).
- An external report found the pilot generated nearly €80 million in economic benefits for Ireland.
- Recipients' arts-related income increased by over €500/month, while non-arts income decreased by €280/month.
- A permanent program could increase artists' output by 22% and lower art costs for consumers by 9-25%.
- 97% of survey respondents supported the program, though opinions varied on selection criteria (economic need vs. merit vs. random).
- The program is cited as evidence that universal basic income (UBI) models can work.