Αrts professionals worldwide are invited to apply for IETM Global Connect 2026, a programme aimed at fostering inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility within the global performing arts sector. It offers selected participants the opportunity to engage with IETM’s extensive international network and attend the IETM Plenary Meeting in Oulu, Finland.
By Creatives Unite CommunityDeadline to apply: Thursday 9 October 2025 at 23:59 CEST (calculate your timezone)
Organizer: IETM
2026 IETM Plenary Meeting Dates: 15-18 June 2026.
Read more and apply here.
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About IETM's Global Connect Open Call
IETM - International network for the contemporary performing arts launched the open call for the 2026 edition of IETM Global Connect!
Since 2021, Global Connect is IETM’s flagship programme created with and supported by the IETM Associate Members, built on IETM's vision for an inclusive, diverse, accessible and eco-responsible network and a global IETM community.
The Global Connect open call seeks 10 performing arts professionals and leaders (producers, artists, managers, presenters, etc.) based anywhere around the globe, working in any performing arts genre*, with five+ years of professional experience. The programme will select professionals passionate and committed to bridging their local contexts with the international performing arts scene through their work and knowledge; with an open, inclusive and generous mindset.
The 2026 Global Connect programme offers:
- Free IETM membership for five years (2026 - 2030);
- Community-building online sessions from January to June 2026, including recording the very first podcast series for the programme;
- Funding support to take part in the 2026 IETM Plenary Meeting taking place in Oulu, Finland on 15-18 June 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants should be currently working in the contemporary performing arts (except for live music) based anywhere in the world and with all backgrounds. Particular attention will be given towards professionals from areas or countries where IETM has low membership or no members at all and individuals who consider themselves part of underrepresented groups in the performing arts landscape. You can view the IETM members list here.
- Applicants should have a minimum of five years professional experience in the performing arts field.
- Applicants should be able to demonstrate a concrete commitment to equality, inclusion, diversity and sustainability in their work practices.
- As IETM’s working language, applicants should be able to communicate proficiently in English and be able to contribute to meetings and gatherings in English.
Applicants should be able to travel to Finland for the IETM Plenary Meeting in 2026 in Oulu, Finland, on 15-18 June 2026. Therefore, they must be eligible to apply for a Schengen visa in a timely manner, if needed.
For more information and to apply, read the full open call on IETM's official website.
IETM - International network for the contemporary performing arts is one of the oldest and largest international cultural networks, uniting over 450 performing arts and organisations working in the contemporary performing arts worldwide. IETM’s Associate Members are public institutions, official bodies, arts funding organisations, foundations, etc. active in their countries and internationally in supporting the performing arts field.
*IETM does not count live music as part of the performing arts. Please find IETM's definition of the performing arts here.
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Main Image: Xuan Nguyen on Unsplash
