Got an idea for your community? We want to hear it!

We’re launching Powerhouse Generator, a new programme supporting grassroots community, cultural and creative ideas through inspiration, practical support and a paid micro-commission.

Whether you’re sitting on a spark of an idea, ready to test something new, or looking to grow an existing project, Powerhouse Generator is all about people, place and possibility. It’s designed to help early ideas take shape – especially those led by individuals or groups who may not usually access funding or cultural spaces.

You don’t need previous funding experience or a formal organisation, and your idea doesn’t have to be fully formed – just something with the potential to make a positive difference locally.

What we prioritise

● Grassroots and lived-experience-led ideas
● Early-stage, unpolished concepts
● Community benefit and participation

Who it’s for

Powerhouse Generator is for projects based in Coventry and its surrounding areas. Applications are open to everyone:
● Individuals
● Community groups
● Informal collectives
● Creatives, organisers and residents
● People with an idea but no organisation or previous track record

You do NOT need

● To have had previous funding
● To have a registered organisation or company

What we’re looking for

Ideas might include (but aren’t limited to):
● Creative or cultural activities
● Community-led events or gatherings
● Participatory projects
● Socially engaged or place-based ideas
● Ideas that bring people together
● Experiments, pilots or tests

All we ask is that the idea matters to local people or the communities you work with, and that it has the potential to make a lasting difference.

What’s on offer

● 1 micro-commission of £1,500 Awarded through a live pitching event, where the winner will be selected via public vote.
● In addition to the micro-commission, selected projects will receive tailored support, designed around what will help their idea move forward most. This could include mentoring, access to space, practical in-kind support or introductions to relevant networks – depending on what’s needed.

How to apply

Choose to submit either:
● A short online form OR
● A short video (up to 3-minutes)

Deadline: 16th Feb 2026, 10am

Applying by video

If you choose to apply by video, please record one video (up to 3 minutes) responding to the questions below.
Send your video to info@imagineerproductions.co.uk with the subject line Powerhouse Generator.

In your video, please tell us:
● What is your idea or project?
● Who is it for and why does it matter?
● Which area of Coventry or the surrounding areas does it relate to, and where would it take place?
● How would you use the Powerhouse Generator micro-fund?
● What non-monetary support would be most helpful? (For example: mentoring, desk, workshop or event space, or practical support from the Imagineer team)
● How can we keep up to date with your progress? (Website or social media links)

Your name
● Your age group (16–17 or 18+)
● The email address you’d like us to contact you on

Important info

If you have any access requirements or would like to apply in a different format, please let us know on info@imagineerproductions.co.uk we’re happy to support.

Shortlisted applicants must be available on 27th February, 6–8pm to take part in a live pitching event at The Daimler Powerhouse.

At the event, you’ll pitch your idea to a public audience, who will vote for the project they would like to see receive the micro-commission.

If you receive the micro-commission or tailored support, we’ll ask you to work with us to document your journey and take part in light-touch evaluation.

This helps us reflect, learn and celebrate the impact of the work.

Want to find out more?

Join one of our friendly Spark info sessions – online or in person – to hear more about the programme, how to apply and to meet some of the Imagineer team.

Spark Online (Zoom)
Thu Feb 5th 2026
● 10am – 11am | Book Place
● 1.30pm – 2.30pm | Book Place

Spark In Person
Wed 11th Feb 2026
● 5pm – 6.30pm | Get Tickets

We recommend joining one of these info sessions before applying, but if you feel ready, you can submit your application for Generator below.