Organizer Information
The Duct Tape & Dreams (DTAD) mentorship programme is initiated by Trans Europe Halles (TEH), a well-established Europe-wide network of cultural centres and creative spaces. Founded in 1983, TEH brings together independent cultural initiatives that transform repurposed buildings into vibrant hubs for artistic production, social engagement, and community development.
TEH is widely recognised for supporting grassroots cultural organisations, particularly those operating outside major metropolitan centres. Through its programmes, TEH facilitates knowledge exchange, capacity building, and international collaboration among cultural practitioners and collectives. The Duct Tape & Dreams initiative reflects TEH’s commitment to nurturing early-stage cultural projects by connecting them with experienced peers and providing a structured mentorship environment.
Title & Description
Duct Tape & Dreams 2026 – Mentorship Programme Open Call
The Duct Tape & Dreams 2026 Mentorship Programme is a targeted support initiative designed for emerging cultural collectives and independent initiatives seeking guidance, peer exchange, and strategic development.
Rather than offering financial grants, the programme focuses on mentorship, networking, and knowledge-sharing, helping participants navigate the challenges of establishing and sustaining cultural spaces. Selected participants will be matched with experienced mentors from the TEH network and gain access to a wide range of professional insights, feedback, and collaborative opportunities.
The programme combines online mentoring sessions with an in-person workshop at the TEH Camp Meeting in Silandro, Italy. Participants will engage in structured activities such as one-on-one mentoring, group discussions, pitching sessions, and collaborative brainstorming.
Duct Tape & Dreams is particularly suited for initiatives in early development stages that are looking to refine their vision, strengthen their operational model, and expand their connections within the European cultural ecosystem.
Categories
- Art Management
- Curatorial
- Interdisciplinary Practices
- Cultural Management
- Community-Based Projects
- Social Practice
Eligibility
- Open to collectives and cultural initiatives (not individuals)
- Must be based in Alpine regions of Europe, including:
- Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Slovenia, Switzerland
- Initiatives must be:
- 2 years old or younger
- Operating (or planning to operate) in a repurposed building
- Located in rural, suburban, or peri-urban areas
- Must demonstrate a commitment to cultural and social impact within their local community
This opportunity is ideal for emerging, grassroots organisations seeking non-financial support and long-term sustainability strategies.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Personal mentorship from an experienced member of the TEH network
- Access to a Europe-wide professional network
- Constructive feedback, guidance, and strategic input
- Participation in a workshop at the TEH Camp Meeting in Silandro, Italy
- Opportunities for visibility and promotion through TEH communication channels
- Structured programme including:
- Online onboarding session
- One-on-one mentoring meetings
- Group preparation sessions
- Follow-up consultations and evaluation
- The programme does not provide financial grants, funding, or full operational support.
- Travel or accommodation support is not explicitly guaranteed.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Complete the online application form
- Provide detailed information about:
- The initiative’s mission and activities
- Current stage of development
- Community impact
- Future goals and challenges
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Selection Announcement: by 31 May 2026
- Online Introduction Session: 3rd week of June 2026
- Virtual Mentoring Meetings: September 2026
- Preparation Session: 2nd week of October 2026
- On-site Workshop (Italy): 22–25 October 2026
- Follow-up Meetings: November – December 2026
- Final Report & Wrap-up: by end of December 2026
Location
Silandro, Italy
Additional Details
- The programme supports only 4 selected initiatives, making it highly competitive
- Focus is on peer-learning rather than top-down instruction
- Participants are expected to actively engage throughout the programme duration
- Emphasis is placed on long-term sustainability and local community integration
Duct Tape & Dreams offers a unique opportunity for emerging cultural initiatives to gain practical insight, mentorship, and international exposure, even without direct financial funding.