Gathering is a vital part of relationship building among and across movements, and we know we have supporters around the globe excited to get more involved in our work. Creative Commons has chapters around the world—communities of practice in a wide variety of topics from science and culture to open source—who are best suited to host local events that meet the contexts and needs of their communities and provide opportunities for in-person engagement.

As a part of our 25th anniversary celebrations, we are pleased to announce the launch of a small fund for two to three regional events in 2026 to amplify the contributions of CC communities over the last 25 years and showcase the amazing networks of open advocates around the world. 

Events could include panels from experts and open access organizations in your region, workshops on how to CC license your work, discussions on current events and the challenges facing our movement, and more. Organizers may want to work with local organizations, open advocates, cultural spaces, and artists to host a series of connected activities or even a multi-day event. It may even be wise to collaborate with other local events where open advocates will already be attending to add on your own gathering. For inspiration, read about the recent  CC Uruguay event.

Funding is limited. We invite CC communities globally to express interest, and we are especially interested in proposals from communities based in  Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania.

Selection Criteria

Organizers must demonstrate:

• An existing, engaged audience in the region
• A documented track record of hosting similar events
• Access to venues that can host at low cost or free of charge
• A history of open advocacy in the region, with key accomplishments that can be highlighted and shared
• A location that is reasonably accessible to others in the region (e.g., a central hub with a major airport)

Optional (nice to have):

• Established involvement in the CC community through legacy network structures

What Selected Events Receive

Two to three  proposals will be selected to receive:

• Up to $5,000 USD 
• Organizational support and visibility as part of Creative Commons’ 25th anniversary programming

How to Apply

Please email community@creativecommons.org with a brief written proposal attached as a PDF that includes:

• Your organizing team and their bios
• The proposed location and venue(s)
• Your target audience and expected reach
• A short description of the event format and goals
• An outline of how you intend to incorporate CC 25th anniversary celebrations into your event
• A draft budget for the event indicating where funds are needed
• Any relevant past events or open advocacy work

Deadline: May 31, 2026

Selections will be made by July 1. We’re excited to support community-driven regional gatherings that strengthen the open movement and build lasting local and regional connections. If you have questions, feel free to reach out to community@creativecommons.org. 

While hosting an event takes a team of established Open practitioners, there are also ways for individuals, newcomers, and more to get involved in smaller ways by attending events, participating in discussions, and spreading the word about CC’s work. Learn more about all the ways you can participate in our celebration.  

Posted 16 April 2026