Why? Because space is the essential building block for LGBTQ+ community, and also for vibrant cultural life in our cities. Yes, the kinds of spaces that queer communities need, and use, are changing. We come together not just in gay bars, but also in sober contexts, in temporary-use and pop-up spaces, in multi-use and interdisciplinary venues, in spaces that operate both day and night. But amidst a discomfiting rise in anti-LGBTQ+ hate speech and violence across Europe, often spurred by political and religious leaders’ rhetoric—durable, lasting venues owned and operated by and for LGBTQ+ community (particularly women, trans, and QTIPOC people), are very much still necessary. 

But these spaces are precarious—and their operators don’t always represent their audiences. One study found that London lost 58% of its LGBTQ+ venues between 2006–2017, to factors like urban development, untenable or unaffordable lease renewal terms, financial or business struggles, and licensing issues. A recent analysis of Berlin techno clubs’ leadership noted that venues are overwhelmingly led by men, with “hardly any FLINTA*” in positions of power. We envision cities where queer-run spaces are abundant, and where women, BIPOC, and trans and non-binary people are more fully represented in venue ownership, operations and decisionmaking. This program aims to make a step in that direction, by making paths to venue ownership more legible to creative practitioners, and fostering mentorship and peer learning between LGBTQ+ nightlife creators.

The 2024 programs were open to anyone who self-identifies as LGBTQ+, is based in the 46 Council of Europe states, and considers themselves actively working in nightlife, culture and/or creative work. Participants do not yet need to be actively developing a specific project or concept.

This project seeks to create a diverse network of participants, session presenters and mentors in terms of geography, identity, and lived experience. We actively encourage participation from women, trans and non-binary people, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), and people of all ages.

In 2024, the cohort application form was open July 1–August 5, 2024, with notifications by the third week of August.

Application assessment is based on what you share about yourself, your motivation to participate, and your ability to commit to the scheduled sessions. We aim to create a diverse cohort of participants in terms of geography, identity, and lived experience.

Keep an eye on this page, or send us a mail through the Contact form below, for updates on future opportunities.

Thanks for your interest! Please fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page and we’ll add you to our contacts, to send updates about program outcomes or future activities.

QUEER SPACE PROJECT is made possible by CIRCE. Read more about CIRCE Fellow Diana Raiselis here. Supporting organizations helping to get the word out include Berlin Clubcommission and Awareness-Akademie (DE), Friends of the Joiners Arms (UK), and VibeLab (NL).