BATS Programme Curation Funding
BATS Theatre is excited to open applications for our Programme Curation Funding for the period between January and June 2026.
This funding supports emerging and mid-career artists and creative groups in Te Whanganui-a-Tara who are developing bold, innovative and socially relevant work.
The deadline for submissions for this season of Pitches is 5pm February 8th, 2026.
What is BATS Programme Curation Funding?
BATS Programme Curation Funding supports bold, community-rooted work from artists and creative groups in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. Successful applicants can request for $3,000 up to $5,000 to develop or present new projects scheduled between January and June 2026.
All funding applicants will be reviewed by a panel that consists of 2 BATS Theatre representatives and 2 external industry representatives.
Guiding Principles
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi – Upholding tino rangatiratanga, partnership, and protection.
- Manaakitanga & Whanaungatanga – Building meaningful, respectful relationships.
- Representation & Inclusion – Platforming diverse and underrepresented voices.
- Bold Storytelling – Prioritising innovative, courageous, and socially relevant work.
- Artist Development – Supporting emerging and mid-career artists with real pathways.
- Community Engagement – Fostering cross-pollination and collective growth.
Who Can Apply & Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all artists and creative groups, with a focus on supporting artists and collectives from emerging, migrant, Pasifika, Tangata Whenua, youth, and LGBTQIA+ and queer communities.
- Applications must clearly outline how funds will be used eg. travel, production, technical resources, personnel, mentorship or other project needs..
- Artists presenting work as part of a Festival are not eligible for this funding.
- Artists must be based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.
- Applications must have a budgeted marketing plan - Within the budget projections for ticket sales, and contingency (fall back plan) as well as a contingency that avoids cancelling shows.
