The RECHARGE Academy invites applications from cultural heritage and creative sector professionals to participate in an immersive four-day program exploring innovative, participatory business models that enhance cultural organizations' sustainability and societal impact.
The Academy will take place from June 3rd to June 6th, 2025, on the campus of Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Through a blend of expert-led sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, the RECHARGE Academy introduces participatory practices to revitalize cultural institutions. Participants will learn to engage diverse communities—including volunteers, stakeholders, and corporate partners—to co-develop strategies that strengthen operations and broaden impact. The program uses the Living Labs methodology, an open innovation ecosystem where diverse groups collaborate to drive change.
Using a "train-the-trainer" approach, the Academy empowers professionals to implement participatory practices in their organizations. The program brings together 20 experienced professionals from cultural heritage and creative industries, creating a dynamic learning environment enriched by diverse perspectives.
The ideal candidate is a mid- to senior-level professional in a managerial or leadership role who is committed to fostering inclusive practices within cultural institutions.
They should be interested in how participatory approaches affect cultural heritage organizations' operations and strategies, comfortable presenting to large audiences, open to collaborative work, and proficient in English at a C1 level or higher.
The organizers cover costs of breakfasts, lunches, and coffee breaks, accommodation, and travel (up to 300 EUR).
Find more information about the program on the RECHARGE website.
