We invite proposals for innovative, community-focused projects that combine artistic creativity and environmental action to inspire hope, dialogue, and transformation.

IMMA is offering three €10,000 grants to fund projects that will:

• Be developed between April and August 2025.
• Manifest at the Earth Rising Festival in September 2025, through an engaging and participatory format that connects with festival audiences.

We are looking for collaborations between visual artists, Irish-based environmental groups, and local communities. Proposals should aim to create impactful projects that highlight the power of collective action in addressing the climate crisis.

Proposals should respond to two or more of these themes:

1. Everything is Connected
   Highlight the interconnectedness of humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems. Explore the shared responsibilities that sustain life on Earth.
2. Imagine New Futures
   Envision hopeful, sustainable futures and propose imaginative solutions for a thriving planet.
3. Working Together
   Showcase the strength of collaboration between people, communities, and nature, celebrating collective effort and shared ideas.

We are particularly interested in projects (new or existing) that:

• Engage Communities: Actively involve local communities across the island of Ireland, in meaningful ways, fostering participation, dialogue, and learning.
• Combine Art and Environmental Action: Utilise the collaboration between artists and ecological groups to propose innovative responses to environmental challenges.
• Manifest tangibly at Earth Rising: Proposals must include a clear plan for presenting or activating the project at the Earth Rising Festival (12-14 September 2025), ensuring it resonates with audiences and creates lasting impact.
• Have Feasibility and Vision: Demonstrate a clear and achievable roadmap for development, delivery, and presentation, within the given timeframe and budget.

Proposals should comprise of a 5 page (max) PDF document which includes the following:

1. Project Concept: A summary description (max 500 words) of the project, its goals, and how it aligns with the themes.
2. Collaboration Plan: How the visual artist and environmental group will work together, including roles and responsibilities.
3. Community Engagement Plan: How the project will involve and benefit local communities.
4. Manifestation Plan: A clear vision for how the project will be presented or activated at the Earth Rising Festival.
5. Budget: A breakdown of how the €10,000 grant will be allocated. Please note that the budgets are all inclusive and should cover all the expenses (including travel) needed for the presentation of your work, including VAT where applicable.
6. Timeline: Key milestones from April to September 2025.
7. Artist/Group Background: Bios of the artist(s) and environmental group, including relevant experience and contact details.
8. Support Material: Up to 5 images, videos, or documents illustrating your concept or previous work.

Applications will be assessed on:

• Relevance: How well the project aligns with the themes and the Earth Rising Festival’s mission.
• Creativity: Innovative ideas that combine art and environmental action.
• Impact: Potential to inspire meaningful change, raise awareness, and engage audiences.
• Feasibility: A clear and achievable plan for development, delivery, and manifestation at the festival.
• Collaboration: Strength of the partnership between the visual artist and ecological group.

• Deadline: Submit your proposal by 5pm Friday 28 February 2025.
• Notification: Successful projects will be announced by Friday 21 March 2025.
• Submission Email: Send your application to [email protected] with the subject line: “Earth Rising Open Call 2025 – [Project Name].”
• Only PDF documents will be accepted.

We will be hosting a Zoom clinic for any questions you may have about the application on 12^th February at 4.30pm.  To register please email [email protected]

Our Impact Strategy

EARTH RISING is more than just a festival—it’s a movement. Each year, we bring together a diverse community of artists, activists, and everyday citizens to engage in thought-provoking exhibitions, immersive workshops, and inspiring talks. Whether you are participating in an outdoor screening or exploring the eco-fair filled with sustainable innovations, EARTH RISING offers something for everyone.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to use the power of art and culture to catalyse climate conversations and inspire real-world actions. We believe that creativity is at the heart of solving the climate crisis, and through our dynamic programming, we aim to ignite the imaginations of all who attend.

Our Impact Strategy: Building a Better Future Together

EARTH RISING is committed to creating a positive impact, not just during the festival, but long after the festival is over. Our Impact Strategy is built on three pillars—Communion, Action, and Learning—that guide everything we do.

Communion: We strive to create a welcoming and regenerative space where everyone feels included. By amplifying diverse voices and celebrating the efforts of those leading the charge in climate action, we foster a sense of community and interconnectedness.

Action: EARTH RISING is a call to action. We empower our volunteers and participants with the knowledge and tools needed to make a difference. From showcasing best practices in sustainability to connecting festival-goers with climate groups, we ensure that every attendee leaves with a clear path to contribute to the climate movement.

Learning: Education is at the core of EARTH RISING. Through immersive learning opportunities, we engage participants in hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and drive change. Whether it’s through interactive workshops or thought-provoking debates, we provide the resources and knowledge needed to deepen understanding and inspire ongoing climate action.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

EARTH RISING is more than just a moment—it’s a catalyst for change. Together, we can reimagine a world where art and activism go hand in hand, where creativity drives action, and where every one of us plays a role in building a sustainable future for generations to come.

Come be a part of EARTH RISING, where the power of imagination meets the urgency of the climate crisis.

Click here to download our full Impact Strategy and tell us what you think [email protected]