The networks provide coordinated mechanisms for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange and cross-border engagement.
The European Commission consults with these networks on the design and implementation of the EU’s cultural policy, recognising their role as key instruments in achieving the objectives of the Creative Europe programme (2021-2027).
Purpose
The European networks action aims to enhance the capacity of cultural and creative sectors to foster their cultural diversity and competitiveness while advancing sustainability and inclusiveness.
The action supports talent development, innovation and organisational growth as engines of resilience, social cohesion and democratic values. Guided by structured support and shared purpose, these networks actively contribute to Europe’s cultural, social and economic future.
Themes and priorities
The supported networks are guided by the European values of artistic freedom, diversity, fairness, inclusion, solidarity and sustainability.
They focus on:
- learning and skills development to ensure relevance to evolving sectors
- freedom of artistic expression, mobility and cross-border collaboration
- youth engagement and sectorial resilience
- diversity, equality and inclusion with attention to gender balance and underrepresented groups
- innovation and competitiveness
- fair working conditions and professional development for artists and cultural professionals (links to studies and reports)
- international cultural cooperation, dialogue and relations
- democracy and solidarity through culture, including support for Ukraine
- sustainability and climate action
2021 selection
Between 2021 to 2023, 37 pan-European networks received co-financing to support cultural organisations and professionals who contribute to the diversity and competitiveness of the European cultural and creative sectors. These member-based structures encompass over 4 000 organisations and over 1 000 individual members, including national and regional entities, artists, and cultural professionals.
As connectors between organisations across borders, these Networks formed by coordinators from 11 countries foster the development and success of many Creative Europe-funded projects and support newly established platforms and emerging artists.
Explore the 37 networks, selecting the year 2021.
2024 selection
With a budget of around €40 million, the action supported 39 projects that collectively involve over 5 000 artistic, cultural and creative organisations in Europe and beyond.
The networks are built around a membership model, ranging from small alliances of 14 organisations to large-scale structures with over 400 members, collectively spanning 125 countries.
Explore the 39 networks, selecting the year 2024.