Launchpad 2.0

The next evolution of Creative Engine: Launchpad 2.0.

Building on a significant year of artist support in past years, Launchpad 2.0 streamlines smaller grant rounds into one richer, year-round funding and mentorship opportunity, supporting up to eight performance-based artists.

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.

This refreshed program replaces all previous smaller grant rounds.

As a part of Launchpad 2.0, successful artists will share in an impressive pool of $214,000 cash and in-kind benefits that include from $8,000 in cash support across 12 months and more than $18,000 of in-kind rehearsal studio time, theatre access and mentorship support for each artist.

These essential benefits provide artists with the time and resources to develop and refine original ideas - from early exploration right through to presentation.

Throughout the year, successful recipients will develop a new work across three stages of creative development, alongside mentorship and a tailored series of workshops, culminating in a work-in-progress presentation to Geelong audiences and beyond.

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

Launchpad 2.0 applications open annually. Keep an eye out for updates.

Launchpad 2.0 applications open annually.
Keep an eye out for updates.

For independent artists with an original concept they wish to develop, refine and present.

The Offer

$8,000 in cash per project, provided over three development periods over 12 months:

• Development #1 (Jan - Mar) $2,000
• Development #2 (Apr - Jun) $2,000
• Development #3 (Jul – Oct) $4,000 including the public development showing

Studio access during all three development periods (up to 6 days per period), in kind value of $18,750

Access to The Open House for development showing (October)

Four professional and creative skills workshops

Mentorship sessions Geelong Arts Centre’s Associate Artists, Keziah Warner and Bron Batten

Artist development support and guidance from the Geelong Arts Centre’s programming team

Access to co-working and meeting spaces

Monthly cohort check-in meetings

Networking opportunities with the wider Creative Engine community of creatives

Complimentary tickets to select Rewire and main season shows

12 month Artist Pass membership in 2026

What we're looking for

Independent artists with an original concept they wish to develop over 12 months, program culminating in a public showing

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

Artists will be expected to have detailed project plans and to engage collaborators to develop the work

Artists must commit to the full duration of the program and attend the outlined

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

Applications will be assessed via a panel of assessors including representatives from the Geelong Arts Centre and independent industry peers

Expectations & Requirements

Participation in planning meetings with Geelong Arts Centre’s Programming team

Clear planning for the three phases of the project development

Completion of all studio rehearsal periods during allotted eligible times (agreed upon at time of program acceptance)

A public showing of approximately 30 minutes in The Open House, following the third development phase

Creative teams will be built if not already existing

Public Liability Insurance cover of $20 million (Geelong Arts Centre can support artists in ways to find PLI cover)

Attend monthly cohort check-in meetings with fellow program participants and networking sessions with the wider Creative Engine community of creatives

Compulsory attendance at all provided professional and creative skills workshops

Attend all mentor sessions – times to be mutually agreed with artists

Attend a photo opportunity with fellow program participants (date TBC)

Completion of an acquittal at the conclusion of the program

Completion of an annual artists survey for 4 years following the program

Launchpad 2.0 is supported by

Creative Engine is supported by

Creative Victoria Logo

Major Artistic Partner

Innovation Partner