Make A Change is back! Solar Bear’s bursary scheme supporting deaf talent across Scotland.
This year the focus is on live performance. For example:
- Theatre
- Dance
- Music
- Cabaret
- Or something else
This bursary is for deaf/deafblind people living in Scotland.
We accept projects at all stages of development.
Maybe you have had an idea that you have been developing and want to take it to the next stage?
Maybe you have an idea at the back of your head and want to take the first step in making it real?
We encourage you to be bold, experimental and brave.
Deadline for applications 13th March 2026 (Noon)
Bursary details
The Solar Bear bursary scheme is for deaf/deafblind creatives living in Scotland.
The funding is for:
- your time
- to pay other actors, creatives, stage managers
- other costs – for example, room hire, travel costs, equipment
We will help you deliver your project. We will offer advice, mentoring and support with budgets.
There is no need to provide a budget. Our budgets are flexible and respond to the needs of each project. What matters most at this stage is a clear, creative and compelling idea.
Ideas you might consider:
- Create a new performance
- Develop a piece of work you have already created
- Work with actors/performers in a rehearsal room, to test out an idea
- Collaborate with someone from another art-form or creative expression e.g. dance; digital projection; sound design. Or collaborate with someone with a different profession, e.g. video game designer; musician; scientist
At the end of your project, you may have a script, a small number of scenes to share, or a more developed performance. We do not expect a fully polished show — this bursary is designed to support development, exploration and experimentation.
How do I apply?
Part 1
You can apply in BSL or in English.
In BSL, send us a short video (no more than 5 minutes) OR in English, write a short proposal (no more than 2 pages).
You can apply as an individual, or with other people.
Tell us:
1) Your name (If you are submitting a group application, please include all the names of the people leading on the project).
2) A bit about you – for example, about your previous experience.
3) What’s your idea, what do you want to do?
4) What things you would need for your project to work (space, people, other resources)?
5) What difference this project would make to you and your career development?
If you’d like to have an informal chat about a project or have any questions about how to apply email jen@solarbear.org.uk
When you are ready to apply send your video or written proposal to jen@solarbear.org.uk
If you need any assistance with sending your video, please email – felix@solarbear.org.uk
DEADLINE: 13th March 2026 (Noon)
Part 2
If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to meet with the panel.
You will be notified of the decisions of the panel by the 10th April.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I have already completed a Make A Change project. Can I still apply?
A: Yes
Q: I have more than one idea. Can I apply more than once?
A: Yes. If you have multiple ideas, you may apply more than once. For example, this could be two solo projects, or one solo project and one collaborative project with another person or team. However, we recommend speaking with Jen for advice if you are considering submitting several ideas – jen@solarbear.org.uk
Q: When do the projects take place?
A: The exact timing will be agreed with the Solar Bear team taking your availability into account.
Q: I am interested in collaborating with a hearing person, is that allowed?
A: Yes. Hearing collaborators can be involved to support and mentor, but the project should remain under the leadership of a deaf person. Key creative decisions, including writing and direction, must be led by the deaf collaborator.
Q: What type of support will be offered?
A: At Solar Bear, we pride ourselves on creating supportive and inclusive working environments. We will tailor our support to your needs, which may include help with budgets, logistics and communication support. We are here to create the space for you to do your best work.
Q: If I am not successful, can I receive feedback?
A: Yes.
