Deadline: 15-Feb-2026
The Bounce Programme supports professionals in contemporary circus and outdoor arts to enhance their creative, relational, and business skills while reflecting on fair practices and working conditions. Applicants with 4–10 years of experience can develop professional projects such as festival programming, editorial work, residencies, or academic events. The programme emphasizes professional development over artistic creation or touring and is open to professionals primarily from Creative Europe eligible countries.
What is the Bounce Programme?
The Bounce Programme is a professional development initiative designed for contemporary circus and outdoor arts professionals. It focuses on strengthening creative capacities, relational skills, and business competencies, while promoting reflection on fair working conditions and industry practices. Unlike funding schemes for new productions, Bounce emphasizes projects that contribute to the broader sectoral ecosystem, supporting long-term professional growth and knowledge sharing.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Professionals residing preferably in Creative Europe eligible countries.
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Individuals with 4–10 years of professional experience in contemporary circus or outdoor arts.
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Applicants actively working on a specific professional project relevant to the programme’s objectives.
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Candidates must submit a CV in English (maximum one page) and project materials in a single PDF including photos, notes of intent, mock-ups, or related documents.
The programme does not accept applications for:
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Artistic projects or creative proposals for new productions.
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Touring initiatives or show creation.
Eligible Project Types
Bounce supports professional development projects that contribute to the sector’s ecosystem. Examples include:
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Festival programming – Planning or curating events within the circus and outdoor arts community.
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Editorial projects – Creating print or digital publications relevant to the sector.
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Cultural centre programming – Developing programs or initiatives in artistic institutions.
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Academic events – Organizing laboratories, symposiums, or hackathons.
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Residency development – Designing and implementing professional residencies for artists.
How to Apply
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Prepare Your Materials
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CV in English (maximum one page).
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Project documentation (photos, notes, mock-ups, etc.) compiled as a single PDF.
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Submit Your Application
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Applications must be submitted before 15 February 2026, 23:59 CET.
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Ensure all documents reflect the professional development focus rather than creative production.
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Selection Process
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Applications are evaluated based on professional experience, relevance of the project, and potential impact on the sector.
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Shortlisted candidates may be asked for additional clarifications or interviews.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Submitting a new show or touring proposal instead of a professional development project.
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CV exceeding one page.
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Project materials not compiled into a single PDF.
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Failing to clearly demonstrate how the project enhances the broader professional ecosystem.
Tips for Success:
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Focus on projects with sectoral impact rather than individual artistic outputs.
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Clearly articulate how the project strengthens creative, relational, and business capacities.
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Use visuals or mock-ups effectively to illustrate project scope and objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply to the Bounce Programme?
Professionals in contemporary circus or outdoor arts with 4–10 years of experience, preferably residing in Creative Europe eligible countries.
2. Can I submit a proposal for a new show or tour?
No, the programme does not fund artistic productions or touring projects.
3. What documents are required?
A CV in English (max one page) and a single PDF containing project-related materials such as photos, notes of intent, or mock-ups.
4. What types of projects are supported?
Projects focused on festival programming, editorial work, cultural centre initiatives, academic events, or residencies that develop professional capacity.
5. Is there a specific deadline?
Yes, applications must be submitted by 15 February 2026 at 23:59 CET.
6. Can applicants outside Creative Europe countries apply?
Preference is given to applicants residing in Creative Europe eligible countries, but residency flexibility may apply.
7. How will applications be evaluated?
Selection is based on professional experience, project relevance, sector impact, and potential to strengthen professional capacities.
Why the Bounce Programme Matters
The Bounce Programme strengthens the professional ecosystem of contemporary circus and outdoor arts by equipping practitioners with skills beyond artistic creation. By supporting projects that enhance organizational, relational, and sectoral knowledge, it fosters sustainable professional development, encourages fair working practices, and builds a stronger, collaborative arts community.
Conclusion
The Bounce Programme provides an exclusive opportunity for mid-career circus and outdoor arts professionals to focus on professional growth and sectoral impact. Participants gain experience in project development, networking, and organizational practices while contributing meaningfully to the broader arts ecosystem. This programme is ideal for practitioners seeking to enhance their skills, influence the sector, and foster sustainable professional practices.
For more information, visit Circostrada Network.