Each year, the award is presented to a recently defended doctoral/PhD thesis at the ENCATC Research Award Ceremony, held annually during the ENCATC Congress. The award exemplifies scholarly excellence by addressing contemporary issues, showcasing a robust research design, and demonstrating the potential to influence policy and benefit practitioners. 

The ENCATC Research Award 2026 will be presented during the ENCATC Congress 2026, taking place 23–25 September 2026 in Nice, France, under the theme: “Artists and Cultural & Creative Professionals at the Centre: Rethinking Work, Policy, and Cultural Ecosystems.”

Deadline for applications: 30th of April 2026