Compared with the previous application round - this autumn - the number of applications from the free cultural actors has increased from 2,150 to 2,823. At the same time, the average amount applied for is much higher, now SEK 1.1 million compared with this autumn's SEK 690,000.
The players apply for money to be able to keep premises, equipment and staff and to be able to have certain activities despite the pandemic.
As before, about 60 percent of the amount applied for comes from music life.
The hard search pressure must be seen in the light of the uncertain situation, emphasizes the Swedish Arts Council's director general Kajsa Ravin.
- It will take time until the culture opens, that is clear, but we do not know what will happen in the medium term either.
What happens in the autumn, how should the cultural sector be able to prepare to open slowly?
The uncertainty is great, nor is it known whether there will be more crisis support.
"Central significance"
Prior to this round of support, the Swedish Arts Council has received new distribution criteria from the government.
Unlike before, special priority must be given to "actors who are of central importance to each art field and who secure production, jobs and retain competence in the sector".
TT: Will only the biggest and best receive support now?
-What the government states is that it is important that the infrastructure is maintained.
Not only do they have to be major players, but they must be of central importance to each art field.
TT: How far is SEK 620 million enough?
-It is an incredible sum in itself, but it is obvious that the funds are not enough for everyone who has applied.
Not everyone will be given priority and it will be difficult to give the requested amounts to priority activities as well.
The needs and conditions do not match each other, says Kajsa Ravin.