Open Call for Programme Partners 2026
Organization: British Council
Programme: Venice Fellowships Programme
Location: Venice, Italy (with UK-based partner institutions)
Eligibility: UK-based Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) or UK-based creative organisations, hubs, social enterprises, charities, or CICs in the fields of Arts, Craft, Design, or Architecture
Application Deadline: Friday, 5 September 2025, 23:59 (BST)
About the Venice Fellowships Programme
The British Council’s Venice Fellowships Programme runs alongside the UK’s national presentations at the British Pavilion during the Venice Biennale. The programme provides a platform for emerging creatives to develop skills, build networks, and engage directly with the Biennale’s international art and architecture exhibitions.
Programme Partners play a vital role in shaping the Fellowships by supporting participants and ensuring that their experiences extend beyond the residency itself.
Responsibilities of Programme Partners
Programme Partners are responsible for:
- Running an open call to their networks and shortlisting internal candidates.
- Funding the selected Fellows for their residency in Venice.
- Providing support to Fellows throughout their residency month.
- Seeking additional opportunities to showcase Fellows’ creative projects beyond Venice.
Eligibility
Programme Partners must be either:
- A UK-based Higher Education Institution (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland).
- A UK-based creative organisation, cultural/creative hub, social enterprise, charity, or CIC working in Arts, Craft, Design, or Architecture.
Application Information
- Applications close on Friday, 5 September 2025 at 23:59 (BST).
- Early applications are encouraged due to anticipated high interest. The list may close before the deadline.
- For full details, please review the Open Call document and contact Sophie Lucas, Venice Partnerships and Programme Manager, at venicefellowships@britishcouncil.org to join the mailing list.
