NEW INC Open Call for Helsinki-Based Creative Practitioner

Year 13 Open Call is now live through March 2, 2026.

Build Your Future Practice at the Heart of New York’s Creative Ecosystem!

Are you a Helsinki-based creative practitioner working at the intersection of art, design, technology, science, or social innovation?

This is a rare opportunity to become part of NEW INC, the internationally acclaimed cultural incubator of New York’s New Museum, and to embed your practice within one of the world’s most dynamic creative ecosystems.

Through a unique international collaboration, one Helsinki-based practitioner will be selected to join NEW INC -Year 13 (September 2026 – August 2027) with financial support, mentorship, and international visibility provided by: The Finnish Cultural Institute in New York, The City of Helsinki, and The Consulate General of Finland in New York.

What Is NEW INC?

NEW INC is the first museum-led incubator dedicated to supporting creative practitioners as they build sustainable practices, experimental projects, or new ventures.

The program brings together an international community of artists, designers, technologists, architects, scientists, and cultural entrepreneurs working across disciplines.

As a member, you gain access to:
World-class mentorship and professional development
A global, interdisciplinary peer community
Hybrid participation (New York + remote)
Workspace and production facilities within the New Museum’s new expansion
Opportunities to present work internationally, including at the DEMO Festival.

Program Tracks

All NEW INC members join one focus track. Available tracks include:
Art & Code
Creative Science
Extended Realities
Social Architecture
Launchpad

What You Will Receive?

The NEW INC program structure allows you to deeply engage with New York’s creative ecosystem while maintaining strong professional roots in Helsinki.

Structure, Residency & Travel Support

New York Residency: September – November 2026
Housing subsidy up to USD 2,000/month
On-site participation and program orientation
Round-trip flights to New York
Finland, December 2026 – March 2027
Remote participation from Helsinki
New York Residency, April – June 2027
Accommodation at FCINY’s residency apartment in Harlem
On-site participation and DEMO Festival presentation
Round-trip flights to New York
Finland, July – August 2027
Remote participation

Financial Support

Full NEW INC membership fee (USD 75/month)
One-time setup fee (USD 150)
Monthly working grant of EUR 800
Two round-trip flights from Helsinki to New York
Housing subsidy (3 months) and free accommodation (3 months) in New York 

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from Helsinki-based individuals or collectives (funding covers one participant only) who:
Work across art, design, technology, science, architecture, or social practice
Are developing experimental, ambitious, or socially engaged projects
Are interested in international collaboration and long-term sustainability
Thrive in interdisciplinary and hybrid working environments

You do not need to run a company or have prior business experience. What matters most is curiosity, commitment, and a strong creative point of view.

Key Dates

Applications open: February 2, 2026
Application deadline: March 2, 2026
Interviews & selection: April – June 2026
Program period: September 2026 – August 2027

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Explore the full Open Call and application instructions on NEW INC’s website and apply now!

Question? Contact Jani Jalonen : jani.jalonen@hel.fi

See also: NEW INC's Year 13 Open House recording from information session for creative practitioners interested in applying for NEW INC’s next cohort.


In collaboration with:
The Finnish Cultural Institute in New York · City of Helsinki · Consulate General of Finland in New York · NEW INC