SIGNAL Young Creatives Lab 2026

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Introduction and Eligibility

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The Young Creatives Lab funds up to four creative projects annually including at least one spot reserved for a young d/Deaf or Disabled artist in 2026. The program seeks proposals for new projects led by creatives aged 18 to 25 years. Successful applicants will have access to:

  • project funding between $5000 and $8000
  • a two-week creative development residency at SIGNAL
  • in-kind technical equipment and production support
  • one-on-one sessions with a dedicated mentor
  • additional funding to assist with access needs - if required.

Artists of all disciplines are encouraged to apply, as well as inter-disciplinary creatives such as curators, producers, performers, designers, filmmakers, gamers, composers, new media artists and writers.

Some project examples may include an exhibition, installation, performance, conversation series, development of a publication, new composition or screen work.

In your expression of interest, you will need to:

  • describe your idea
  • outline your plan for creative development and a work-in-progress showing at SIGNAL
  • present a draft budget including project team fees, production costs, and materials required.

Assessment and criteria

A selection panel made up of industry peers and SIGNAL creative staff will assess each project proposal. SIGNAL’s Young Creatives Lab will ensure that a minimum of 20% of the assessment panel members are d/Deaf or Disabled.

Projects will be assessed and selected based on the following criteria:

  • Innovation and point of difference. The proposal must be for a new idea that hasn’t previously been developed or presented.
  • Idea is clearly expressed and achievable.
  • Impact of participation in the Young Creatives Lab on the applicant’s professional development.
  • How the idea / proposal engages with the SIGNAL venue and program.

Before submitting an application please ensure you have read the eligibility guidelines and frequently asked questions on the SIGNAL website. 

I confirm that I am available to attend the Young Creatives Lab in-person Induction on 12 and 13 November, 2025 at SIGNAL * Required
Response required.
I confirm that I am not a City of Melbourne employee or volunteer * Required
Response required.
I confirm that my project proposal does NOT form part of an accredited course of study e.g. university degree or TAFE qualification * Required
Response required.
I confirm that my project proposal is not already funded by another City of Melbourne grants, sponsorship, expression of interest (EOI) program, or City of Melbourne arts program * Required
Response required.
I confirm that my project proposal is a new idea and has not been publicly presented before * Required
Response required.
I have read and understood the Young Creatives Lab eligibility criteria and by submitting an application confirm my eligibility for this opportunity * Required
Response required.