Organizer Information
The European Network of Cultural Centres (ENCC) is a prominent European platform representing over 3,000 socio-cultural centers across 27 countries. The ENCC works to empower the cultural sector by fostering innovation, international cooperation, and professional development. For this edition, they have partnered with the Association of Children's Culture in Finland to host a program that emphasizes the role of arts and culture in strengthening civic engagement and democratic values.
Title & Description
Lights On 2026 – Reimagining Democracy
"Lights On" is the ENCC’s flagship training and work-exchange program. The 2026 edition, titled "Reimagining Democracy," serves as a creative laboratory for socio-cultural workers to explore how arts-based approaches can bridge social polarizations and build inclusive communities.
Participants will engage in a transformative journey that begins with a five-day immersive seminar in Finland, followed by a seven-day staff exchange at a partner organization elsewhere in Europe. The program is designed to move beyond traditional galleries and theaters, utilizing arts-based methodologies to foster critical thinking, respectful dialogue, and value-based citizenship in both online and offline spaces.
Categories
- Socio-Cultural Work & Arts Management
- Socially Engaged Art
- Creative Activism
- Community Building & Participatory Design
- Digital Cultural Innovation
Eligibility
The call is open to young cultural professionals and socio-cultural workers (suggested age under 35). While priority is given to staff from ENCC member organizations, the call is open to international applicants from non-member cultural organizations and freelance cultural managers who are passionate about building cohesive societies. The program highly encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including those working with marginalized groups or in rural/remote areas.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Professional Training: A 5-day intensive workshop in Tampere, Finland, covering cultural democracy and arts-based methodologies.
- Mobility & Exchange: A 7-day staff exchange program with an international partner organization to learn new institutional practices.
- Travel Grants: Financial support for travel costs. ENCC members receive full travel coverage (up to €300 for sustainable travel), while non-members receive a significant contribution (approx. €150–€200).
- Networking: Integration into a life-long international community of young cultural leaders across Europe.
- Certification: An ENCC "Lights On" Certificate and digital badge confirming the acquisition of specific professional competencies.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Professional Background: A summary of their current role and organization.
- Motivation Letter: Detailing why they want to participate and how the theme of democracy relates to their local community.
- Action Plan: Initial ideas for the staff exchange and how they intend to implement learned skills.
- Commitment: Agreement to attend the preparatory meeting, the training seminar, the exchange, and submit a final evaluation report.
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 23 January 2026
- Online Preparatory Meeting: 13 April 2026
- Training Seminar (Finland): May 4 – May 8, 2026
- Staff Exchange Period: June 1 – October 31, 2026 (Minimum 7 days).
- Reporting & Evaluation: November 2026.
Location
Tampere, Finland
Additional Details
The program emphasizes sustainable mobility. Participants are encouraged to use eco-friendly transportation (train/bus) to receive higher travel reimbursement rates. The ENCC is also committed to accessibility; candidates with specific needs or disabilities are encouraged to contact the organizers in advance to ensure full participation.