Organizer Information
Ettijahat – Independent Culture is a Lebanon-based cultural organisation founded in 2011 that supports independent artistic and cultural activities across the Arab region and its diaspora. Its mission is to enable artists to engage in cultural practice, social change, and artistic production across artistic disciplines. The organisation regularly publishes open calls for artists and cultural professionals (individuals, groups, organisations) aimed at increased artistic mobility, professional exchange, cultural empowerment, and public engagement. Ettijahat works throughout the Arab region and Europe, providing frameworks for funding, networking, and artistic collaboration.
Title & Description
Zad: Miles for Connection – Support Framework for Artist Mobility and Engagement is an ongoing open call designed to support artists, artistic collectives, and cultural practitioners from the Arab region who are currently residing in Europe. The programme’s primary objective is to promote artistic mobility and creative exchange by removing barriers and enabling artists to present work, participate in cultural events, and connect with new audiences throughout Europe. It recognises the complex challenges faced by relocated artists — including limited access to networks, production opportunities, and cultural presence — and aims to create meaningful pathways for expanded engagement, cultural visibility, and professional growth.
Categories
This call supports a broad range of creative disciplines including (but not limited to):
- Performance (theatre, dance, live art)
- Music
- Film & Video
- Multimedia
- Literature & Readings
- Visual Arts
- Public Presentation & Festival Participation
The call is interdisciplinary in nature, accommodating artistic practices that span across fields and live event formats.
Eligibility
- Open to artists and artistic groups from the Arab region who have relocated and currently reside in Europe.
- Priority is given to applicants originally from countries including Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Yemen, Sudan, and Libya.
- Individuals of any artistic discipline and age — directors, performers, musicians, writers, curators, producers — may apply.
- Artists must typically secure an official invitation from a hosting organisation or partner if the support involves travel outside their current country of residence.
Program Benefits & Awards
Successful applicants can receive financial support focused on enhancing mobility and enabling artistic projects to reach new audiences across Europe. Supported costs include:
- Travel expenses (inter-regional travel within Europe)
- Accommodation and daily expenses while participating in events or residencies
- Translation costs for works presented or meetings with audiences in multilingual environments
- Shipping and transportation of artworks or production materials
- Additional support for inclusive travel needs (e.g., health or accessibility requirements)
Specific amounts and distribution vary according to the nature of the visit and project. The programme encourages environmentally responsible travel choices where feasible (e.g., trains, shared transit).
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- A completed application form via the Ettijahat application platform
- Artistic CV or resume
- Project narrative explaining the purpose of travel and anticipated activities
- Proof of current residence in Europe
- Confirmation of invitation from hosting organisation (if applicable)
- Any supporting documentation such as samples of previous work
Applications are typically completed online through Ettijahat’s portal (registration required).
How to Apply
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
Location
Europe
Additional Details
- Environmental considerations: The programme encourages sustainable travel options as part of its mobility support.
- Open to groups and individuals: Both solo artists and collectives can apply.
- Multilingual support: Application materials and supporting letters may be included in different languages, but the application process is accessible through Ettijahat’s platform.
- Artists retain ownership rights to their work but must acknowledge support from Ettijahat where applicable (general guideline for grants).