AFK subsidy for events in Amsterdam: 6 tips for nighttime creators

Amsterdam has a rich history when it comes to nightlife. The city is (and was) home to many innovative and renowned clubs, and pioneered efforts in nightlife policy; a night mayor was appointed to bridge the gap between nightlife creators and urban policymakers. However, this never translated into cultural subsidies for nightlife culture... until now.

At the end of April 2024, the municipality of Amsterdam, in collaboration with the Amsterdam Fund for the Arts (AFK), will introduce a subsidy scheme for nightlife culture. This is valuable support for event organizers focusing on programming over commerce, and it's also an important opportunity for young nightlife creators, DJs, programmers, and organizers to carve out their own space within the capital's nightlife scene.

• This scheme encompasses two types of subsidies: a Workspace Rental Cost Allowance and Project Subsidies for Artistic Work in the Night.The Workspace Rental Cost Allowance provides young creators aged between 18 and 27 the opportunity to apply for a €2,500 subsidy for renting a studio, rehearsal space, or editing room in Amsterdam. Intended for those who have been active in the professional nightlife scene for at least one year.
• The Project Subsidies for Artistic Work in the Night support creators and organizers contributing to nightlife culture by presenting or programming artistic work that reaches and engages young audiences during the night. These subsidies range from €5,000 to €20,000.

How to apply for this set of subsidies for events and nightlife? WeTicket has outlined a small strategy:

1. ‍Research: Study the specific guidelines and criteria of the AFK Nightlife Grants to understand which types of projects and initiatives are supported. Focus on the fund's objectives, which aim to increase the participation of young people aged 18 to 27 in nightlife culture.‍
2. Project Planning: Develop a detailed project plan that clearly describes the intended activities, target audience, artistic vision, and budget. Ensure your plan aligns with the AFK’s objectives, such as creating new work, organizing events, and engaging young audiences during the night.‍
3. Partnerships: Consider collaborations with other creators, organizations, or venues in nightlife culture to strengthen your application. Demonstrate how your project contributes to the growth and diversity of Amsterdam's nightlife culture and promotes youth participation.‍
4. Relevance: Emphasize how your event or project appeals to and engages young people aged 18 to 27 in Amsterdam's nightlife culture. Show how your event or project contributes to artistic development, participation, and inclusivity within this community.‍
5. Communication: Communicate clearly and convincingly about your project idea and why it deserves funding within the context of the Nightlife Scheme. Be concise but show passion and enthusiasm for your project.‍
6. Deadline and Procedure: Ensure your application is submitted on time within the specified deadline. Follow the specific instructions for the application process, including creating an account to the AFK’s website and submitting all required documents.

Note: this strategy is just a start. The AFK also provides advice, such as drop-in sessions and speed dates throughout the city to help structure your application. Keep an eye on the AFK website for updates.

Learn more through the AFK’s or the Municipal website, or click here to read the Amsterdam Nightlife Execution Agenda.

By implementing this strategy, you increase your chances of a successful funding application with the Nightlife Scheme of the AFK and can further develop your contribution to Amsterdam's nightlife culture. Good luck!