Deadline: 01-Mar-2026
The Pro Helvetia ‘Compass’ Grant is a funding initiative designed to support the long-term strategic growth and global visibility of independent performing arts companies. The grant offers a maximum of CHF 50,000 over two years to cover costs associated with analysis, planning, and coaching. To be eligible, companies must have previously created at least two productions supported by Pro Helvetia and must collaborate with national or international partners.
Pro Helvetia is requesting applications for its strategic growth initiative (often referred to as ‘Compass’). This grant is designed to support independent companies in long-term planning, fostering collaboration with national and international partners, and developing strategies to increase global visibility and impact.
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Objective: To refine operations, expand global presence, and support long-term strategic growth.
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Duration: 2 Years.
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Funding Cap: Maximum CHF 50,000.
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Core Focus: Collaboration with self-selected partners (theatres, festivals, agencies, promotion offices).
Why It Matters
This funding provides a valuable platform for artists and companies to:
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Strengthen Networks: Build deeper ties with international stakeholders.
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Professionalize Structures: Enhance internal operations and professional structures.
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Sustainable Growth: Pursue long-term stability in the global cultural arena rather than project-by-project survival.
Eligible Costs and Activities
The grant is comprehensive, covering all costs associated with the development and implementation of the proposed strategy. Eligible expenses include:
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Analysis: Strategic review of current operations.
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Planning: Development of long-term business or artistic plans.
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External Coaching: Hiring experts for mentorship and guidance.
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Mandates: Costs for specific strategic tasks.
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Other Related Expenses: Operational costs tied directly to the strategy.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Is Eligible?
To be considered for this grant, applicants must meet specific professional and historical benchmarks.
Production History
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Minimum Requirement: Companies must have created at least two productions that were previously supported by Pro Helvetia.
Remuneration Standards
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Fair Pay: Applicants must ensure that all participants in the project are remunerated according to professional association recommendations.
How to Apply
Applications are assessed based on a competitive set of criteria focusing on the company’s trajectory and the quality of their proposed strategy.
1. Select Partners
Identify and secure self-selected national and international partners. These may include:
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Theatres
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Festivals
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Agencies
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Promotion offices
2. Develop a Strategy
Formulate a clear strategy that addresses how the company will refine operations and expand its global presence over the next two years.
3. Submit Application
Ensure the application highlights:
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Artistic Independence: The unique voice and autonomy of the company.
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International Presence: Current global footprint and potential for growth.
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Feasibility: A realistic plan for executing the strategy.
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Partner Calibre: The quality and relevance of the chosen partners.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Prove Your Track Record: Clearly reference the two previous Pro Helvetia-supported productions to establish immediate eligibility.
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Prioritize Fair Pay: Explicitly state how remuneration aligns with professional association standards; failing to do so is a common disqualifier.
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Choose High-Calibre Partners: The reputation and relevance of your selected partners (festivals, agencies) are heavily weighted in the assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum funding amount available?
Recipients can receive a maximum of CHF 50,000 allocated over a period of two years.
2. Can I apply if I have only one previous Pro Helvetia production?
No. The eligibility criteria strictly require companies to have created at least two productions previously supported by Pro Helvetia.
3. What types of partners should I choose?
You should work with self-selected national and international partners such as theatres, festivals, agencies, or promotion offices that can help you refine operations and expand global reach.
4. What costs does the grant cover?
It covers costs related to strategy development and implementation, including analysis, planning, external coaching, mandates, and related expenses.
5. How are applications assessed?
Assessment is based on four main pillars: artistic independence, existing international presence, the relevance/feasibility of the proposed strategy, and the quality of the partners involved.
6. Is fair remuneration mandatory?
Yes. It is a strict requirement that all participants be paid according to the recommendations of relevant professional associations.
Conclusion
The Pro Helvetia Strategic Growth Grant is a crucial instrument for established independent companies looking to move beyond single-project funding toward sustainable international success. By offering up to CHF 50,000 for strategic development and structural improvements, Pro Helvetia empowers artists to build robust professional networks and secure their place in the global cultural market. Companies meeting the two-production threshold are encouraged to identify high-impact partners and apply.
For more information, visit Pro Helvetia.