Grants & Support Initiatives

APPLICATIONS OPEN MON 20 JAN 2025

Here to inspire creativity and support positive risk-taking, Geelong Arts Centre's Creative Engine is proud to announce a new grant round for artists and creatives working in the G21 region.

Totalling up to $21,000 in financial grants and $35,000 of value-in-kind studio access at the arts centre’s landmark Ryrie Street building, the available grant packages will directly benefit individuals and organisations who are looking to develop new and exciting work, push the boundaries, and advance their contemporary arts practice.

AVAILABLE GRANTS

IGNITION: 2 x $5,000 grants, plus 5 days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal

FIRST NATIONS GRANT: 1 x $5,000 grant, plus 5 days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal

JUMP START: 2 x $3,000 grants, plus 5 days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal

PLACE TO MAKE: 5 days of in-kind studio access for creative development/rehearsal or three months of in-kind desk access in Merge co-working space

To be successful, applications must demonstrate the ability to meet the program’s three selection criteria: Connection, Innovation & Thoughtfulness. Applicants must also be available to complete their studio rehearsal time during one of the eligible allotted weeks (see individual grant pages for specific dates).

Details regarding the application process and eligibility requirements can be found below within each grant category. Cross-genre projects are highly encouraged!

We support the diversity of lived experiences in the d/Deaf and Disabled community and encourage multiple-marginalised Disabled people to apply. An additional $2,000 in access costs is available for both the Ignition and Jump Start grants. Please email creativeengine@geelongartscentre.org.au to discuss accessibility requirements.

Priority will be given to artists who work in, live in, or can demonstrate a strong connection to the G21 region.

We have an express commitment to First Nations artists, PoC artists, and artists from lower income backgrounds.

Applications will be reviewed by a curatorial panel who will take into consideration the calibre of the artists, the quality of the creative idea and the connection to Geelong.

KEY INFORMATION

Applications Open - Monday 20 January 2025
Applications Close - 9:00am, Monday 10 February 2025

Period in which development is to be completed:

To be adivsed

INFO SESSION + Q&A

In 2022 we hosted an online Q&A session during which our Creative Engine team discussed the application process, and the selection criteria of Connection, Innovation and Thoughtfulness. If you missed the session, you can view it here!

BLOOMSHED

2024 GRANT ROUND TWO RECIPIENTS

Explore the recipients of the 2024 round two Ignition, Place To Make and Jump Start grants

LEARN MORE

Creative Engine offers three levels of support to suit your creative needs:

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IGNITION

Supporting local artists in the development of new work

Ignition grants are designed for projects that are in the early stages of creation and need support in transitioning from creative development to preparation for presentation. We are looking for impressive ideas with well thought out project plans.

A successful Ignition offer will include:

  • Cash contribution: $5,000 (+ up to $2,000 in access costs if required)
  • Access to rehearsal studio space (5 days)
  • Access to co-working and meeting spaces
  • Mentoring opportunities with leading independent practitioners
  • Opportunity for an informal progress showing, however this is not a requirement
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JUMP START

Supporting local artists in the development of new work

Do you have a burning idea that you are keen to explore? We’re offering Jump Start cash grants and access to rehearsal space for ideas which need exploring further, and the space and time to do it. These are seed ideas which we are keen to develop.

A successful Jump Start offer will include:

  • Cash contribution: $3,000 (+ up to $2,000 in access costs if required)
  • Access to rehearsal studio space (5 days)
  • Access to co-working and meeting spaces
  • Opportunity for an informal progress showing, however this is not a requirement
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PLACE TO MAKE

Supporting local artists in the development of new work

Whether you need space for workshops, concept development or networking, the Place to Make initiative is designed to offer a testing ground for creatives and companies to sample and refine ideas.

A successful Place to Make offer will include:

  • Access to rehearsal studio space (5 days), AND
  • Access to desk in Merge co-working space (Monday-Friday, for 3 months)

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