Support, training, and networking

From the outset, Next Steps has combined project funding with professional development, individual mentoring, and targeted networking, complementing existing public funding instruments with a development-oriented approach. Even during the application process, the Next Steps team at Bureau Ritter provides comprehensive guidance in various formats, working closely with artists to develop tailored, needs-based concepts.

Selected projects are invited to take part in a range of accompanying measures: the annual gathering of all funded projects at Crespo Haus, a monthly online meet-up for exchange and networking, and targeted training formats. These are based on the specific needs of the participants and are delivered either by external experts or by the Bureau Ritter team.

In the next funding phase, these exchange and training opportunities will be further expanded. From 2027 onwards, they will be complemented by a new format, “Next Steps TanzLokal.” This one-day event will take place annually in different cities across Hesse and offer funded artists a public platform to present insights into their projects, while fostering dialogue between dance practitioners, cultural policymakers, and audiences.

Next Steps PLUS

A key future component of the programme is the structured support of Next Steps alumni. Former recipients will continue to have access to all program formats and can actively contribute their experience. In this way, they remain connected to current developments and in exchange with artists from other cities. Their ongoing involvement ensures that knowledge and experience from completed projects are shared, strengthens collaboration across regional scenes, and helps consolidate and expand structures for future partnerships.