Past Program

In times characterized by fear, division and complex challenges such as structural inequity and racism, outdated systems of education and work, and climate change, it is clear that we need new ideas and innovation. Shaping a creative, just and sustainable world calls for action at all levels and collaboration across many sectors.
 
In 2021, the Annual Global Co-Lab of the Cultural Innovators Forum will focus on consolidating the existing network built up since 2013 and in engaging them in a collaborative brainstorming process to think forward around the future of the Forum. A curated schedule will combine a focus on “big picture” cross-sectoral issues from across the Salzburg Global program portfolio, with online connection sessions for the whole network, and Hub Huddles either online or in-person depending on COVID-19 restrictions.

We need bold ideas and innovation to advance inclusive economic development, positive social change, and urban transformation for liveable cities. Salzburg Global believe that cultural innovators uniquely:

• Demonstrate the creative vision, disruptive thinking, and energy our societies urgently need in a world of rising inequality, polarization, and planetary threats;
• Provide imaginative and disruptive impulses for civic innovation, social cohesion, and sustainable development at different levels and across sectors;
• Influence and empower communities, helping people find voice and new forms of expression.

Driving transformation through arts and culture can be daunting, difficult and often lonely. Economic impacts, venue closures and loss of work mean that many artists and creative innovators have never been in a more precarious situation. We believe that is vitally important to raise the profile of the important work that creative innovators are doing; to provide them with support to sustain them through the challenges that they are facing; and to connect them with global resources.