An opportunity for community-based organisations to shape and host high-impact creative projects
Community Arts Partnership (CAP) is inviting community-based organisations from across Northern Ireland to apply to participate in our CEMENT Programme – Community Engagement, MEntoring, Networking and Training.
What is CEMENT?
CEMENT works with artists and communities to deliver projects that combine creativity, social connection and positive change. The programme pairs community hosts with trained artists/facilitators to co-design and deliver projects that:
- Engage local people in high-quality creative activity
- Build skills, confidence, and shared ownership of the process
- Address social issues through participatory arts
- Leave a lasting legacy in the community
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from:
- Community centres, local development groups, cultural organisations, youth projects, residents’ associations, and other grassroots networks
- Groups able to commit space, time and staff/volunteer involvement to host and support a project
- Organisations committed to inclusivity, respect, and co-creation with participants
Please note: Arts organisations already in receipt of Arts Council of Northern Ireland Funding will NOT be considered.
You DO NOT need to have delivered an arts project before – we value your community knowledge and connections as much as artistic experience.
What selected organisations receive
- An experienced artist mentor and an artist mentee assigned to your project
- Full mentoring and project management support from CAP
- A supportive materials budget built into the programme
- In some special circumstances, assistance with participant travel or care support (via programme partners)
- All agreed project costs covered, including artist fees and materials
- Capacity-building opportunities for your team and volunteers
- A place in a wider network of CEMENT partners across NI
What’s expected from you
- A genuine commitment to co-design and co-delivery
- An identified lead contact in your organisation
- Suitable space for workshops and/or activities
- Active involvement in recruiting participants and supporting sessions
Timeline
Applications close: 4th September, 2025
Projects delivered: Autumn 2025 – Spring 2026
How to apply
Full details, application questions, and programme guidelines are available in our CEMENT Community Consultation Google Document:
If you would like the information in another format or have questions before applying, please contact: josh@capartscentre.com
CEMENT – Community Engagement, Mentoring, Networking and Training – is funded by Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council, and the Halifax Foundation, and delivered by Community Arts Partnership, Northern Ireland’s leading advocate for community-engaged arts.
