February Opportunity Board

Hey ppl 👋🏽

By the time you’re reading this, I hope you’ve found a rhythm that feels right for you . One that holds a growing balance of fun, rest, creativity and intentional growth. And if you’re still finding your feet, that’s okay too. February often arrives as a quieter checkpoint, a moment to notice what’s settling and what still needs time.

This month feels like an exciting one for us at ourppls. We’ve just begun our first community programme of the year — The Artist’s Way — and the response reminded us just how much appetite there is for shared creative practice, reflection and doing things together. It’s been grounding to start the year in community, and that energy carries through this month’s Opportunity Bulletin Board.

As always, this board exists as a gentle nudge, not a demand and built with our community in mind: creatives, organisers, researchers, collectives and grassroots groups navigating big ideas alongside real-world constraints February’s edition brings together 40 opportunities across culture, community, research, climate and social justice, curated with care and intention.

Whether you’re actively applying, quietly bookmarking, or simply reading to remind yourself what’s possible, all of that still counts. Growth doesn’t have to be rushed, sometimes it unfolds slowly through choosing what truly aligns.

Take what you need. Leave the rest. And come back whenever it feels right. Don't forget to scroll down for our top tips for applications!

We would love to hear from you too! What kind of opportunities would you like to see more of in 2026?

Our top tips for ourppl looking to apply to any funding or training opportunities:

💐 Know the Commitment

Check the time, location, and expectations. Be honest with yourself. Can you fully show up? Capacity is key.

💐 Lead with Your ‘Why’

Let your purpose speak. Whether it’s your community, your craft, or your growth; share what drives you and why this opportunity matters to you. This will help your artistic voice and unique identity shine through and separate you from other applicants.

💐 Connect the Dots

How does this programme or fund help you grow—creatively, personally, or professionally? Say it clearly. Funders want to back potential and a plan.

💐 Be Clear on What You Need

Is it mentorship, space, funding, connection? Spell it out. This shows self-awareness and makes it easier for selectors to advocate for you.

💐 Ask for Feedback Before You Submit

A friend, mentor, or peer can catch what you’ve missed. Or, read your application out loud, it works wonders.

💐 Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

If something doesn’t make sense—ask. Most opportunities want you to reach out.

💐 Read the Brief Twice—Then Once More

It sounds obvious, but knowing exactly what’s being asked gives you a major edge.

💐 Build on Your Wins

Refer to past projects, learnings, or community impact—even small ones. Growth shows trajectory.

💐 Keep a Bank of Past Applications

Save your old answers, bios, project descriptions. Future-you will thank you.

💐 Your Story Matters—Tell It Authentically

You don’t need to sound like anyone else. Use your voice. That’s what makes your application stand out.