A major new addition to the 2026 Industry Insights Workshops program is the Artist Development Initiative which is designed to support performers beyond the workshop itself and into the next stages of their trajectory.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to apply for targeted financial support to further develop specific skills identified during the program. These bursaries are designed to provide practical, career-focused support that helps artists take their next step.
Performers will be encouraged to apply for amounts between $500-1500 from an overall fund of $15,000.
What the Artists Development Initiative can support
Funding may be used for areas such as:
- Dance training
- Acting classes or coaching
- Vocal training or repertoire development
- Audition preparation
- Other clearly identified areas for growth
What we’re looking for
Funds will be awarded to participants who demonstrate:
Potential for excellence
We’re looking for artists who show strong potential to make an impact, whether through their performance, presence or unique artistic voice.
Clarity around development
Strong candidates will have a clear sense of what they need to improve and how the funds will help them get there.
Alignment with feedback
We’ll be considering how closely a participant’s self-identified goals align with what our facilitators observe throughout the workshops.
How it works
The focus of the initiative is targeted support. For example:
- A performer with a great voice but less effective song choice may be supported to build a stronger repertoire
- A compelling singer-actor whose dance needs development may be supported with focused dance training
We’re not looking to fund general study, but to support specific, meaningful development that will help move an artist forward.
Our approach
Think of this as a helping hand to get you over the line.
Many performers don’t need years more training, they need the right support at the right moment. This initiative is designed to provide exactly that, responding to both what you tell us and what we see in the room.
Why we’re doing this
The Artist Development Initiative reflects the Rob Guest Endowment’s commitment not only to identifying emerging talent, but to actively investing in its growth.
We want to ensure that promising performers leave the program not just inspired, but equipped with the support they need to take their next step.