A fully funded Pro Helvetia cultural exchange program in Switzerland 2026

The Pro Helvetia Research Residency Program offers an exceptional opportunity for artists and cultural professionals to explore, interact, and connect with creative communities worldwide.

This program supports participants who aim to deepen their artistic understanding, develop transnational networks, and immerse themselves in diverse cultural environments.

Designed to encourage research and exploration rather than production, this residency allows creatives to gain fresh perspectives that can inspire future projects and long-term collaborations.

Overview of the Research Residency Program

Pro Helvetia’s Research Residency Program is open to artists and cultural practitioners from Switzerland and partner regions including Arab countries, Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America. The initiative fosters artistic exchange between Switzerland and these international regions, promoting mutual dialogue and the development of innovative ideas.

Unlike production-focused residencies, this program prioritizes the research phase of artistic work. Participants are encouraged to experiment, observe, and engage with local cultures without the immediate pressure of producing work. The residency serves as a period of learning, reflection, and networking in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Objectives of the Program

The Research Residency Program is designed to achieve several key goals:

• Encourage cultural exchange between Switzerland and international partners.
• Support artistic research and exploration.
• Provide opportunities for creative professionals to expand their networks.
• Help participants identify potential collaborators and project partners abroad.
• Strengthen intercultural understanding and artistic diversity.

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By fulfilling these objectives, the program plays a crucial role in nurturing the global creative ecosystem and enhancing dialogue between different cultural contexts.

Who Can Apply

Applications are open to:

• Artists and cultural professionals living in Switzerland.
• Artists and cultural professionals from the partner regions who wish to conduct research in Switzerland.

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Eligible applicants should demonstrate a strong artistic background and a clear research plan. The residency is suitable for individuals working in various creative disciplines, including:

• Visual arts
• Performing arts
• Music
• Literature
• Design
• Architecture
• Interdisciplinary arts
• Cultural mediation

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Duration and Structure

Research residencies typically last up to four weeks. During this period, participants have the freedom to shape their residency according to their research interests. They may choose to meet local artists, attend cultural events, explore local archives, or immerse themselves in specific art communities or neighborhoods.

Each residency experience is personalized to match the participant’s goals. Pro Helvetia provides logistical and curatorial support to help residents make meaningful connections and gain access to relevant institutions or professionals. This flexible approach ensures that artists can engage deeply with their host environments and pursue insightful research directions.

Financial Support and Coverage

Pro Helvetia offers comprehensive support to selected participants, which includes:

• Accommodation during the residency.
• A daily allowance to cover living costs.
• Travel expenses to and from the residency location.
• Assistance with logistics and local networking opportunities.
• Access to working facilities when needed.

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The program is designed to allow artists to concentrate on their research without financial burdens, ensuring a comfortable and productive stay.

Application Process

Applicants must submit an online application through Pro Helvetia’s application platform. The application should include:

1. A detailed research proposal describing the artistic objectives.
2. A portfolio highlighting previous work and relevant experience.
3. A motivation letter explaining the residency’s potential benefits.
4. A proposed timetable for activities during the stay.

The selection process is conducted by a professional committee, which evaluates applications based on creativity, relevance, and potential for long-term collaboration.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed according to several key criteria:

• Clarity and quality of the research plan.
• Applicant’s artistic profile and experience.
• Potential for future collaborations and cultural exchange.
• Feasibility of the proposed project within the residency period.
• Alignment with the program’s objectives of fostering international artistic dialogue.

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Only candidates whose proposals reflect artistic curiosity, openness to cultural interactions, and innovative thinking are considered for selection.

Benefits of Joining the Residency

The benefits of participating in this research residency extend far beyond the duration of the stay. Artists gain access to new creative environments that challenge and broaden their perspectives. They form connections with professionals and institutions that can lead to future projects and international partnerships.

Some of the major benefits include:

• Opportunity for cross-cultural learning and collaboration.
• Exposure to new artistic practices, traditions, and methodologies.
• Development of new conceptual frameworks for future work.
• Greater visibility in the international art scene.
• Strengthened professional networks with curators, institutions, and fellow artists.

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The residency acts as a transformative opportunity for creative growth, helping participants refine their vision and contribute meaningfully to global cultural discourse.

Expected Outcomes

Although the research residency is not linked to a specific production requirement, participants are encouraged to keep open documentation of their process. This could later become the conceptual foundation for exhibitions, publications, performances, or collaborative projects.

Returnees often share their findings with Pro Helvetia’s network and use the experience as a springboard for future creative development.

Support and Mentorship

Throughout the residency, participants receive ongoing support from Pro Helvetia’s regional offices and local cultural partners. Mentorship may also be available depending on the residency’s focus and location. This guidance helps residents integrate effectively into local art ecosystems and make meaningful use of their time abroad.

The presence of mentors, curators, and established professionals ensures that residencies become spaces of exchange, learning, and artistic inspiration rather than solitary research alone.

Partner Regions and Collaboration Opportunities

Pro Helvetia’s partner regions include:

• Arab countries and Africa
• Southern, Eastern, and Southeastern Asia
• Eastern Europe
• South America

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This wide geographical reach allows for a rich interplay of artistic ideas and cultural practices. The program often leads to collaborative projects, exhibitions, or co-productions between Swiss and international artists. Through these engagements, the residency helps build lasting bridges between creative communities.

Host Institutions and Working Spaces

Participants may be hosted by independent art spaces, cultural centers, studios, or academic institutions. The host arrangements vary depending on the research topic and region. Each residency is tailored to provide suitable working conditions and access to relevant resources.

Pro Helvetia works closely with reliable local partners to ensure residents can focus on exploration and creative discovery in a professional yet flexible environment.

The Spirit of Exchange and Experimentation

At the heart of the Research Residency Program lies the belief that artistic creation thrives through exposure to diverse perspectives. By engaging with new contexts, participants are inspired to rethink their practice and imagine innovative directions for future projects.

The residency program fosters openness, dialogue, and experimentation — values that shape a vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape. Participants return home with deeper insights into both their work and the broader global artistic conversation.

How to Prepare a Strong Application

To enhance the chances of selection, applicants should pay attention to the following recommendations:

• Develop a clear and focused research question.
• Highlight how the residency aligns with your artistic goals.
• Demonstrate understanding of the host country’s cultural context.
• Emphasize potential for future exchange and collaboration.
• Provide a realistic and well-structured work plan.

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A strong application not only outlines what you hope to achieve but also reflects curiosity, professionalism, and an eagerness to engage with others.

Why This Program Matters

Programs like the Research Residency by Pro Helvetia are vital for fostering intercultural understanding and nurturing creative innovation. They create platforms where artists can interact beyond national borders, exchange knowledge, and craft projects that speak to shared human experiences.

By supporting early-stage artistic exploration, the program invests in the long-term development of international collaborations that challenge boundaries and inspire global artistic dialogues.

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