The UNESCO-Aschberg Bursaries for Artists programme was established in 1994 to open new career prospects to young artists and provide them with the possibility for further training in specialised institutions.

The fellowships are co-financed by the International Fund for the Promotion of Culture (IFPC) and an international network of partner institutions specialised in the training of artists. The IFPC was created in November 1974 during the 18th session of UNESCO’s General Conference, and has developed into a financial fund that supports cultural development projects all over the world. Its aim is to help creators and cultural entrepreneurs to find additional funds for their projects so that cultural diversity could profit from globalisation instead of being its victim.