<p>
Visit the culture portal for Norway - <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kulturnett.no">Kulturnett Norway</a>
</p>
<p>
<strong><u>The Mandate</u></strong>
</p>
<p>
Norsk Kulturr&aring;d,&nbsp;Arts Council Norway, was established in 1965.&nbsp; Its three principal objectives are:
</p>
<ul>
<li>to administer the Norwegian Cultural Fund </li>
<li>to serve in an advisory capacity on cultural affairs for the central government and public sector and </li>
<li>to launch experimental cultural activities in areas that the Council considers to be of particular interest.</li>
</ul>
<p>
<strong><u>Relationship with government</u></strong>
</p>
<p>
Norsk Kulturr&aring;d retains&nbsp;largely independent, although it is administered and financed by the Ministry of Culture and Church Affairs.&nbsp; The Ministry is responsible for general cultural policy guidelines and administering operating funds to national and regional cultural institutions.&nbsp; The Council allocates financial support to artistic and cultural projects throughout the country.
</p>
<p>
<strong><u>The Budget</u></strong>
</p>
<p>
In 2004, Norsk Kulturr&aring;d's budget is NOK 249.5m (approx <span>&euro;29.7m, US$36.3m).</span>
</p>
<p>
<br />
<u><strong>Unique or Special Features of the Organisation</strong></u>
</p>
<p>
Norsk Kulturr&aring;d maintains a decision process involving the interaction and balancing of
</p>
<ol>
<li>administrative competence </li>
<li>the advice of expert panels and </li>
<li>the political considerations of the board.</li>
</ol>
<p>
<u><strong>Greatest Current Challenge</strong></u>
</p>
<p>
The greatest challenge of Norsk Kulturr&aring;d is how to create a better understanding of the importance of improved economic conditions for creative art outside the established institutions.
</p>
<p>
<u><strong>Greatest Current Strength</strong></u>
</p>
<p>
The fact that the Council enjoys professional respect by the larger part of those belonging to the world of art and culture and is considered a legitimate agent for channelling funds.
</p>