The International Association of Puppetry-Friendly Cities (AVIAMA), founded in 2012, unites cities and local governments from around the world that share a deep commitment to the art of puppetry. Convinced of the importance of culture in local development, AVIAMA member cities support puppetry through festivals, museums, theatres, and performing companies that strengthen their cultural identity and international visibility.
Together, these cities form a global network of cooperation and exchange, working to promote creativity, research, and innovation in the puppetry arts.
About the grants
For the 8th consecutive year, AVIAMA is launching its “Puppets and Mobility” International Grants — a program designed to support mobility for artists, researchers, and professionals in the field of puppetry.
These grants aim to facilitate travel and accommodation, often the main obstacles to realizing creative and research projects, and to encourage artistic collaboration across borders.
Objectives
The AVIAMA International Grants aim to:
- Support the creation of new works by emerging artists and innovative companies;
- Encourage research projects that contribute to the evolution of puppetry;
- Promote training and professional development in the field of puppetry arts.
The grants are open to individuals and organizations worldwide.
There is no age limit, although the Jury will give special consideration to students and young professionals. Projects should preferably be developed in one of AVIAMA’s member cities, but exceptional proposals from other locations may also be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must include the following documents:
- A detailed project presentation (max. 3,000 characters) in French and English;
- A project timeline outlining key stages;
- A provisional budget including costs and expected sources of support;
- A CV highlighting the applicant’s links to puppetry;
- A cover letter (in French and English) explaining motivations, expected outcomes, and contributions to the sector;
- A letter of support from an AVIAMA member city;
Any additional letters of support the applicant considers useful.
⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: Friday January 16th 2026.
- Results announced: Friday April 18th 2026.
Applications must be submitted by email to:
📧 contact@aviama.org
Grant Amount
- The amount varies according to the project’s scope and budget, up to a maximum of €2,000.
- The AVIAMA grant cannot exceed 50% of the project’s total budget or total actual expenses.
After Selection
Recipients will sign an agreement with AVIAMA and may receive up to 50% of the grant in advance.
They will be required to submit a final report (written or video format) and acknowledge AVIAMA in all communications related to the project.
AVIAMA Grant Rules
Please read the complete rules and conditions for the AVIAMA – Puppets and Mobility International Grants 2026 carefully before submitting your application.
The full document can be downloaded below.
