Since the landmark vote of November 29, 2020, the City of Zurich has worked together with dance and theater professionals to fundamentally revise its cultural funding system for both established institutions and independent artists. Previously, established institutions received multi-year or open-ended funding, while the independent sector relied primarily on short-term project-based support. Since the structural reform, institutions have received fixed-term multi-year funding (up to six years), while independent artists and companies benefit from longer-term grants lasting two to four years.

The new funding system came into effect in 2024, although the first concept funding period began in 2022. The third funding phase (2024–2029) is currently underway. Applications are now open for the two-year concept grant for the independent dance and theater sector. Applications will be accepted until October 15, 2026.

More information on application criteria and conditions: Link