AIHIO – early-stage work support

The purpose of the Aihio support is to enable a working group to develop the initial stages of a new artistic idea without the pressure to produce a finished performance for the premiere.

Based on collaborative work, it is more meaningful to seek funding and a production venue for the artistic idea in the future. In accordance with ITAK’s strategy, the purpose of this early-stage support is to promote the vitality of dance art in Eastern Finland and to improve the working conditions of local dance artists.

Application criteria

Any freelance working group may apply for the Aihio grant, as long as they include at least one dance artist who lives and/or works actively in the ITAK region (North Karelia, North Savo, South Savo). The selected work does not yet need to have other funding or a production venue.

In the selection process, the originality and relevance of the work concept to the current times will be evaluated. The work concept may still be at the idea stage. However, we hope that the application will indicate the work group's goals for the work period in the early stages of the project.

We hope to receive proposals drawing from diverse contemporary dance practices. We do not prioritize any specific aesthetic in the selection process. You may also apply with a work that your group has previously submitted to ITAK’s repertoire in past open calls.

Support and funding

The selected working group will receive a grant of 5,000–8,000 euros, depending on the group’s size. The grant will be allocated entirely to cover the working group’s artists’ salaries, either via salary payments or invoices. The theater sector’s collective bargaining agreement(opens in new window) applies to the wages. The grant amount enables, for example, two weeks of work by a working group of three dance artists. The supported work must be continuous.

A separate agreement will be made with the selected working group regarding the possibility of using the rehearsal space provided by ITAK during the work period (the ITAK stage or another space managed by ITAK), if it supports the creative process. The support does not include compensation for travel or accommodation expenses, nor for materials or equipment needed for the work.

ITAK requires that all artists working on a project during the supported working period receive compensation for their work, either in the form of Aihio support or in some other way (e.g., a personal artist grant).

How to apply

The application period runs from May 6 to May 31, 2026. You can apply for Aihio funding by submitting a written proposal for your project or by presenting it orally during a remote meeting with ITAK’s artistic director. Please fill out the application form on the ITAK website during the application period. All applicants will be notified of the selection results by September 30, 2026.

Decisions will be made by ITAK’s Artistic Director Veera Lamberg in consultation with ITAK staff by September 30, 2026. Formal production agreements will be drawn up once ITAK’s funding for 2027 has been secured.

Ask for more information

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