Organizer Information
HAPPENING is a European collaborative initiative dedicated to supporting emerging creatives and cultural entrepreneurs in developing sustainable and impactful practices. Co-funded by the Erasmus+ Youth Programme, it brings together partner organizations across Europe to foster cross-border collaboration, skill-building, and knowledge exchange. The programme focuses on empowering participants to transform ideas into actionable projects while strengthening their understanding of the cultural ecosystem at both local and European levels.
Title & Description
HAPPENING – European Programme for Emerging Cultural Entrepreneurs 2026–2027
HAPPENING is a ten-month European programme designed for emerging creatives seeking to develop their artistic projects alongside entrepreneurial and professional skills. Running from October 2026 to May 2027, this hybrid programme combines online learning, collaborative workshops, and an in-person mobility phase in Brussels.
Participants will explore key themes such as creative ecosystems, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and ethics in artistic practice. Through structured modules, peer exchange, and mentorship-like guidance, the programme encourages experimentation and reflection rather than outcome-driven production.
A central component of HAPPENING is the collaborative development of open-access tools and resources aimed at supporting future cultural entrepreneurs. By participating, creatives actively contribute to shaping accessible knowledge for the broader artistic community.
The programme concludes with a reflective phase, allowing participants to evaluate their personal and professional growth while strengthening their role within the European cultural landscape.
Categories
- Visual Arts
- Performance (Theatre, Dance, Music, Circus)
- Video / Film
- Media Arts
- Interdisciplinary Practices
- Cultural Management
Eligibility
- Open to emerging creatives and cultural professionals
- Age requirement: 20–35 years old
- Must be resident in Belgium, France, or Italy (no nationality restriction)
- Open to artists, filmmakers, performers, media creators, and cultural workers
- Must be comfortable working in English
- Motivated to engage in collaborative, experimental, and reflective processes
- Must commit to the full duration of the programme
Program Benefits & Awards
- Participation in a 10-month European programme
- Access to international networking opportunities
- Structured modules on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and creative ecosystems
- Participation in Brussels mobility (2027)
- Contribution to co-created open-access tools and educational resources
- Youthpass Certificate (EU-recognized certification of non-formal learning)
Financial Support:
- Programme participation is fully funded (Erasmus+ co-funded)
- Accommodation allowance: €85/day during Brussels mobility
- Travel grants:
- Up to €200 from France (green travel required)
- Up to €250 from Italy (€400 with green travel)
- Online activities and individual follow-up are covered
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Personal information
- Description of their artistic or professional practice
- Motivation to participate in the programme
- Confirmation of availability for all programme dates
How to Apply?
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 May 2026
- Selection Results: 30 June 2026
- Waiting List Valid Until: 30 September 2026
- Programme Duration: October 2026 – May 2027
- Brussels Mobility: April 2027
- Final Reflection Session: September 2027
Location
Brussels, Belgium
Additional Details
- A total of 27 participants will be selected across partner countries
- Each partner organization will pre-select 9 candidates, ensuring diversity in disciplines and backgrounds
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited to interviews
- Participants must attend all programme activities; partial participation is not allowed
- Travel must be arranged by participants in coordination with organizers
- Food costs are generally not covered, unless specified for certain activities
- The programme emphasizes peer learning, co-creation, and interdisciplinary exchange
- Detailed logistical information will be provided to selected participants