Conference 2026 – Get Involved

Get Involved and Resources

Who Should Attend?

  • Rural Touring Schemes & Promoters: Network, discover new work and exchange best practices.
  • Artists & Performers: Showcase work, pitch new ideas, and engage with rural touring opportunities.
  • Funders & Policymakers: Gain insights into rural touring infrastructure and opportunities.
  • Cultural Sector Professionals: Collaborate, learn and contribute to the conversation on innovation and diversity.
  • Community Leaders & Educators: Explore cultural engagement and audience development in rural settings.

“Gathering with peers united by a passion for community – embedded art felt encouraging and spurred me on” – 2024 Conference attendee

NRTF Bursaries

We are pleased to tell you that applications are now open for conference bursaries.

We have bursaries available for Schemes, Artists and Promoters to help you to attend the NRTF conference – Connection in Wolverhampton this June.

Artist Bursaryapply here

  • 85% discount to attend the full conference

Promoter Bursaryapply here

  • 100% discount to attend the full conference, plus a contribution of up to £150 towards travel

Scheme Bursaries

  • 30% discount on an additional staff ticket – apply here
  • 50% discount for an artist or promoter to attend with a full-price scheme staff member – apply here

Applications close on 27th April at 12 noon, we aim to let applicants know the outcome by 8th May 2026.

You can purchase a conference ticket now and it will be refunded if you are successful in securing a bursary place.

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Session Sign Ups

Coming soon!

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Artists Call Outs

Please note Artist Call Outs are now closed.
In January 2026, we held an open call out for Rural Touring artists to apply to take part in our annual conference. This included Ballyhoo and Showcase opportunities. 

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