Pillar 1:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 4:
Encouraging local artistic creation

The signing of the Eurocities Lille Call to Action coincided with the development of a new cultural policy in Enschede.

Inclusivity, diversity, sustainability and increasing citizen’s participation were major priorities in the development and implementation of Enschede’s new cultural policy and led to instrumental partnerships between the municipality and local cultural partners.

New and increased prospects for cultural subsidies allowed for the creation of a level playing field, giving equal access for artists and organisations to apply for multiannual municipal support.

Enschede’s cultural policy (Cultuurnota), adopted in December 2023 and rolled out in 2024, expands physical, financial, and creative opportunities for artists, recent graduates, and small to mid-sized cultural organisations. The introduction of multiannual subsidies supports young creatives, collectives, and communities in building a more diverse and stable cultural scene.

A total of €2.9 million was allocated for these four-year subsidies, primarily benefiting smaller organisations and cultural makers.

Nineteen groups were selected, representing a young, diverse, and internationally oriented cultural community. Applicants comply with national sustainability standards, including the governance culture code, fair practice code, and cultural diversity code.

Developed through close collaboration between municipal administrators and cultural actors, the policy emerged from joint meetings, workshops, and discussions that fostered a shared vision. This cooperation has strengthened ties between the city and its cultural sector, enhancing artistic and cultural diversity across Enschede.

Total Budget 2024-2027: EUR 2,896,000

Exclusively available for cultural makers and small to medium-sized organisations