Geelong Arts Centre's Grant applications are now open for local artists to develop their next new work

Geelong Arts Centre has issued a call-out for six local artists to share $64,000 in cash and in-kind studio access and mentorship as part of their Creative Engine Grant program.

Now in its sixth year, the Creative Engine program offers direct support to local performing artists and those with a connection to the Geelong and G21 community to access, studio space and resources to create, workshop and develop new and exciting work.

Offering both cash support and in-kind access to Geelong’s Arts Centre’s world-class studios and co-working space, these grants are targeted towards individuals and organisations who are looking to push the boundaries and advance their contemporary arts practice.

Launched in 2019, Creative Engine is Geelong Arts Centre’s commitment towards nurturing the creative landscape of Geelong, Victoria and beyond.

Since launching Creative Engine, Geelong Arts Centre has invested in 963 Victorian artists, developed 133 projects, delivered 82 grants, 34 professional development initiatives and 9 co-commissions.

The support provided for Victorian artists through Creative Engine covers funding, development and commissions as well as venue hire, staff and equipment costs to the value of $1.2 Million.

From theatre, scriptwriting to dance, music, digital and community-based practices, artists across all live performance mediums from Geelong or with a connection to the region are encouraged to apply.

First Nations artists and artists from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with additional access supports available.

Creative Engine is supported by the Ian Potter Foundation, expanding and enhancing the flagship development program by offering a range of new initiatives tailored to the needs of developing artists in the region.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks

“Victoria is the creative state, and we know that regional cities like Geelong are home to many talented and passionate creatives across a diverse range of practices.”

“Through funding opportunities like Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine Grants we’re backing local artists and creative practitioners to create new work and take their careers to the next level.”

Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“Geelong has so much creative talent, and programs like Creative Engine are key to helping local artists bring their ideas to life. These grants provide the space, support and resources artists need to develop bold new work and strengthen our city’s vibrant cultural scene.”

Quote attributable to CEO and Creative Director, Geelong Arts Centre Rhys Holden

“Creative Engine is all about nurturing creative growth in the region and supporting artists at every stage of their journey. Geelong is home to some of the most talented and innovative artists and many amazing projects have been developed under our artist development programs. We are excited to help bring bold, original ideas to life within our community."

Quote attributable to Geelong-based singer, actor, writer and musician artist Connor Morel

“Geelong Arts Centre has been fundamental in the making of my team’s latest work and the overall development of our artistic practice over the past 4 years. These grants have given my team and I the space, time and money to interrogate our artform with incredible guidance from the Geelong Arts Centre team. Time and time again they've come to the table to assist on the journey, and it is the very reason I've been able to get two shows off the ground. Without such support it simply wouldn't have happened.”

CREATIVE ENGINE GRANTS

IGNITION
2 x $5,000 grants, plus five days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal.
Support in getting early-stage project ideas off the ground and ready to share with the world.

JUMP START
2 x $3,000 grants, plus five days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal.
Offers a testing ground for performance artists to experiment, evolve, and refine their ideas.

PLACE TO MAKE
2 x five days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal plus three months of in-kind desk access in Geelong Arts Centre’s Merge co-working space.
For early ideas that need time and space to grow and take shape.

An additional $2,000 in access costs is also available for all grants to cover access supports such as Auslan interpretation, note taking and other needs to assist artists with accessibility requirements.

Applications are now open
Applications Close: 9:00am, Monday 18 August 2025

Visit: geelongartscentre.org.au/creative-engine

Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, Major Artistic Partner, the Ian Potter Foundation, Deakin University, and Innovation Partner, Costa Asset Management.