The Tresor Foundation Berlin has launched Subcultural Futures, a training and mentorship program dedicated to supporting young people across the EU who are interested in creating subcultural spaces in their communities. Hosted by the Academy of Subcultural Understanding, the program offers hands-on training in Berlin combined with ongoing mentorship in each participant’s home region. Designed for individuals aged 21 to 35 who are fluent in English and have concrete plans to open a venue outside of major metropolitan areas, Subcultural Futures is now accepting applications through November 21, 2024.
The Academy of Subcultural Understanding, founded by the Tresor Foundation, provides resources for aspiring club owners to develop sustainable, community-focused venues. This initiative offers training in the management and operation of subcultural spaces, as well as guidance on club culture’s intersections with urbanism, community-building, and subcultures. The Academy brings young venue operators together with researchers and experienced professionals, fostering a collaborative environment where participants can gain practical knowledge and insights relevant to their local contexts.
Subcultural Futures will run from January to June 2025 and will accommodate eight participants who will engage in a structured mentorship program that includes two main components. First, participants will undertake a five-month mentorship with industry professionals within their region, gaining insights and practical advice specific to their local scene. Mentors, selected from Tresor’s European network of club owners, managers, and cultural organizers, will guide participants on topics such as business strategy, event planning, and venue management.
Additionally, participants will attend two week-long intensive training sessions in Berlin from January 26 to February 1 and from May 18 to 24, 2025. This on-site training will be held at Tresor and will cover essential aspects of club management, including bar operations, door policy, security, business planning, and overall club concept development.
In addition to the general program prerequisites, Subcultural Futures encourages applications from BIPoC individuals, those with migration backgrounds, and individuals facing intersectional discrimination. Applications consist of a 60-second video outlining the applicant’s motivations for joining the program, alongside a written statement detailing their club experience, vision for the venue, intended audience, and perspective on the significance of club culture.
For EU residents interested in contributing to the development of subcultural spaces in their regions, Subcultural Futures provides the training, mentorship, and industry connections necessary to bring their ideas to fruition. Applications remain open until November 21, 2024, and you can apply here.