INVEST Programme
Supporting the next generation of theatre and dance artists in Northern Ireland.
What is INVEST?
INVEST is an artist development initiative designed to nurture creative potential and support the professional progression of theatre and dance practitioners in Northern Ireland.
The programme was developed in response to clear sector need and is grounded in research, consultation and ongoing evaluation with artists, freelancers, sector stakeholders and previous participants.
At its core, INVEST exists to provide meaningful, practical support to artists at a key stage in their development, helping them strengthen their practice, expand their networks and move forward with greater confidence and ambition.
Since 2017, Theatre and Dance NI has gathered evidence linking the sustainability of Northern Ireland’s cultural sector to the need for direct support for freelance artists. INVEST was created as part of that response.
What Participants Can Expect
INVEST offers a tailored and supportive development experience shaped around the needs, ambitions and creative practice of each participant.This includes:
Bursaries
Participants receive financial support to explore new creative ideas, attend training, invest in research and development, or pursue opportunities that support their growth as artists.
Mentoring
Each participant is matched with a professional industry mentor whose experience reflects their artistic practice and development goals — providing guidance, challenge and space to reflect.
Training and Industry Development
Participants take part in curated training sessions, workshops and conversations with experienced artists, producers, programmers and sector leaders.
Residentials and Peer Exchange
INVEST creates space for participants to connect, share ideas and build relationships through structured sessions, intensive development opportunities and peer exchange.
Networking and Connections
Artists are connected to local, national and international partners through networking opportunities, industry conversations and relationship-building activity.
Who It's For
While the exact eligibility criteria may vary each year, INVEST is shaped to support the next generation of artists and makers working across theatre and dance.
The programme is particularly relevant for artists who are:
- Looking for support, structure and professional guidance
- Seeking time and space to reflect and grow
- Interested in expanding their networks and industry connections
While the exact eligibility criteria may vary each year, INVEST is shaped to support the next generation of artists and makers working across theatre and dance.
Why INVEST Matters
Creative careers can be difficult to sustain without the right support, access and opportunity.
INVEST was created to help address some of the barriers that emerging artists and freelancers often face, including:
The programme is particularly relevant for artists who are:
- Limited access to professional guidance and mentoring
- Challenges around industry access and visibility
- A need for stronger connections across the sector
By investing directly in artists, the programme supports not only individual development, but also the long-term strength, sustainability and ambition of the wider theatre and dance sector in Northern Ireland.
Participant Experience
INVEST is designed to create a generous, supportive and inclusive environment where artists can take risks, reflect on their practice and build confidence in their next steps. What participants have said:
How to Get Involved
INVEST opens for applications annually as part of Theatre and Dance NI’s
professional development offer and runs from November to July.
Applications
Applications are not always open year-round, but details will be shared here and
across our Opportunities page, e-zine and social channels when the next call
opens.
Applications are currently closed.
Please check back for future opportunities or explore current artist development
opportunities below.
Please note: Membership must be active for a minimum of six months before
becoming eligible to apply for bursaries and development programmes.
