Factory International

Get Involved

There are loads of ways to get involved, create together, or take the lead.

There is so much expertise and wisdom across Greater Manchester and at Factory International. We are committed to reflecting a wide range of voices, opinions and suggestions.

Since the start of MIF in 2007, the people of Manchester have helped create major artworks, hosted their own festivals and co-curated an extraordinary range of events.

We also have public forums where local residents can get involved in decisions around our long-term plans, discuss specific issues such as access, transportation or ticket prices, plus a whole lot more.

Now from our home at Aviva Studios, we deliver a year-round programme that the people of Manchester can create with us, help design and take part in.

Current Opportunities

  • Callout: WOW Manchester Marketplace

    Are you a community group or stall-holder who wants to be part of WOW Manchester? Apply to join the WOW Marketplace today.

  • Callout: The Hobby Cave

    What’s your favourite hobby? Join an exciting new project from Hetain Patel and Artangel by submitting your favourite hobby here.

  • Callout: Neighbourhood Organisers

    Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? We’re looking for new neighbourhood organisers, and we want to hear from you!

  • Submit a project idea

    Propose a project for our Curatorial and Producing teams to review.

  • Artist Development

    Discover opportunities to stretch your practice, develop new skills and meet fellow artists.

  • Participate

    Find out how to participate in one of our major events.

  • Become a Member

    Experience extraordinary, all year round

  • Young Factory

    Get discounted tickets for gigs, exhibitions and more.

  • Factory Academy

    A home to help people from all backgrounds start new careers in the creative industries.

  • Volunteer

    Would you like to be a part of one of the world’s most dynamic and adventurous cultural festivals?

Our work

  • Curate Together

    Manchester residents have helped create new artworks, hosted their own mini festivals and co-curated major events – find out how you can take part here.

  • Neighbourhood Organisers

    Our Neighbourhood Organisers build communication and collaboration between Factory International and communities across Greater Manchester.

  • Community Partnerships

    Community Partnerships give partner orgs and their communities more opportunities to create, collaborate on and participate in Factory International events.

Join a forum

Group photo of the People's Forum

The People's Forum

The People’s Forum is a group of Greater Manchester residents who meet every month to help point Factory International in the right direction.

These representatives from many different communities offer feedback and guidance on a range of topics, from transport and sustainability to marketing and audience development.

Become a vital bridge to your community, be the first to share new opportunities or the key to our next big public commission.

Don’t worry if you’re not an art expert. Enthusiasm is what counts. And access is a top priority here, so this opportunity really is open to everyone.

You can volunteer to join the Forum every two years.

Applications are currently closed.

Young People's Forum

We also have a collective of 16-28 year olds from Greater Manchester, who engage with the programme, policies and organisational structure at Factory International.

This group is all about impact and making progress in everything from sustainability to equalities. Young people are at the centre of the conversation, and can really influence where and how Factory International works.

We recruit new Young People’s Forum members every other year. Want to represent your area and help young people have a bigger say at Factory International? Then look out for our next open call.

Sign up ↓