Supporting the next generation of researchers
Established in 2026, the Young and Emerging Researchers Forum Award recognises outstanding research by PhD students participating in the Young and Emerging Researchers Forum (YERF), a platform dedicated to supporting the next generation of researchers shaping the future of cultural management and cultural policy.
Held annually as part of the ENCATC Congress, the Forum brings together PhD candidates, early-career scholars, and internationally renowned academics not only to present meaningful research across Europe and beyond, but also to receive constructive feedback from leading experts, engage with peers facing similar research challenges and reinforce international collaboration.
Presented to the most outstanding research contribution at the Forum, the Award recognises work addressing issues relevant to the cultural and creative sectors, from cultural policy and governance to participation, creative industries, cultural ecosystems and heritage management.
The Award encourages emerging scholars to develop ambitious and impactful research agendas. It also contributes to the career development of young researchers by connecting their work with an international community of academics, professionals and peers and by strengthening opportunities for knowledge exchange and future collaboration.
The Award provides international recognition for the most outstanding research contribution presented at the Young and Emerging Researchers’ Forum. The recognition highlights the laureate’s research within the ENCATC international community and supports the visibility and professional development of emerging researchers working in cultural management and cultural policy.
The Award is open to participants in the Young and Emerging Researchers’ Forum (YERF), including:
- PhD candidates in cultural management, cultural policy, or related fields
- Young and emerging researchers working on topics related to cultural management and policy
Participants should be conducting research relevant to the cultural and creative sectors, including but not limited to:
- cultural policy
- cultural management
- cultural governance
- cultural participation
- creative industries
- cultural ecosystems
- cultural heritage management