CIAF is proudly supported by a range of government and philanthropic partners. This includes funding from the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Tourism and Events Queensland, via the Destination Events Program (QDEP) Fund. CIAF also receives support from the Australian Government through Creative Australia and the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS) program, as well as ongoing support from Cairns Regional Council. CIAF is also supported by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and receives funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund. In 2026, the CIAF Fashion Program is presented with the support of QIC.