2026 Create Lab grants up for grabs

THE CITY of Greater Bendigo’s annual small grants initiative, Create Lab, has opened for expressions of interest for its 2026 edition.

Create Lab is designed to support local creatives to research, test and develop new ideas, and explore innovative collaborations, particularly with sectors outside the traditional creative industries.

Grants of as much as $4000 will be awarded to successful applicants to help bring their various projects to life.

The program also aims to provide access to workspaces, meeting rooms, studio facilities and green screen technology and offer mentoring through peer support, industry connections and networking opportunities.

Creative City officer Mandy Field said the program provided support for local artists to explore their creative practice in new ways and new contexts.

“Examples could include working in partnership with a community or cultural service, health provider, education organisation or community house to explore a creative partnership, workshop, or outcome of some kind,” she said.

“Other examples might include combining art and technology, or art and food, or working with sectors where innovation is welcomed.”

As part of the program, recipients will participate in two peer workshops to share their process and receive feedback.

Applications close on Friday 12 December with an online information session due to be held at 1pm on Tuesday 11 November.

For more information on the application process and to access an expression of interest form, visit the Bendigo Venues & Events website.

On the other hand, to RSVP for the information session, email [email protected].