HAPPENING – A European programme for creative entrepreneurship

31/03/2601/05/26

HAPPENING is a one-year programme dedicated to creating open-access digital tools and developing a vision for the future network of young creators in Europe. Supported by the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme, it is led by a consortium of four organisations:

  • ALTER EGO (X) (An organisation that supports and develops high-impact cultural initiatives in France and across Europe.)
  • Energie alter-ative (A cultural association supporting the performing arts through festivals and artist development)
  • Entire Framework (A technology consultancy specialising in the design of digital solutions)
  • ICHEC (A Brussels-based business school promoting sustainable innovation in the cultural and creative industries)

About

Who is eligible?

We are looking for 27 emerging young creators, ready to develop their projects, skills and independence within a collaborative European framework, and keen to shape Europe’s cultural future.

Relevant fields

  • Performing arts (theatre, music, dance, contemporary circus, etc.)
  • Film and audiovisual
  • Creative media (podcasts, audiovisual tools, auteur and sensory formats)
  • Visual arts
  • Cultural managers, producers and sector professionals in these disciplines

Eligibility criteria

  • Reside in Belgium, France or Italy (no nationality requirement).
  • Be aged between 20 and 35.
  • Be comfortable working in English.
  • Be motivated by collective, reflective and experimental processes.
  • Be open to working in an international and diverse environment.
  • Share our core values.

What’s in it for you?

A nine-month European support programme (September 2026 – May 2027), comprising:

  • Training and collaborative workshops throughout the year with partner organisations, to identify the needs and challenges of cultural entrepreneurship projects.
  • Co-creation of open-access digital tools and a network vision, designed to be used and adapted by young creatives across Europe.
  • Networking with other participants, professionals and partner organisations.
  • Youthpass certification, a European recognition of non-formal skills acquired.

Program

Practical info

Costs and funding

Participation is free of charge (co-funded by the Erasmus+ Youth programme).

  • Included: Online activities and individual support.
  • Mobility to Brussels (2027): A daily accommodation allowance of €85 is provided. Erasmus+ travel grants are paid as lump sums based on distance: up to €200 from France (eco-friendly transport mandatory) and up to €250 from Italy (€400 if using eco-friendly transport).
  • Participants book their own travel arrangements in coordination with the partners. Meal costs are not covered, unless otherwise stated for a specific activity.

Key dates to note:

  • Application deadline: 1 May 2026.
  • Announcement of results: 30 June 2026.
  • Each partner organisation will select 9 candidates from their country, ensuring a balance between artistic practices and backgrounds (additional interviews may be arranged).
  • A waiting list will remain open until 30 September 2026.

Useful resources