Ecsite, the European network of science centres and museums, has two calls for hosts which are open for applications.
Full member organisations are invited to apply to host the 2024 Ecsite Directors Forum. Submissions are also open for the Ecsite Annual Conference in 2025, and 2026.
The deadline for both calls is 31st August 2023.
Ecsite Directors Forum 2024
The annual Ecsite Directors Forum takes place over two days in late October or November.
This event brings together 80-90 directors and senior managers from science engagement institutions in Europe. It offers a safe environment for organisations to discuss significant strategic issues, share their experiences, and build their network.
There are a number of advantages for the host institution. The event enhances the host’s reputation as a thought leader in European science engagement. It provides a platform to share the institution’s expertise, and opportunities to build meaningful connections with other organisations.
The host venue will be selected by the Ecsite board in September. Applicants will be informed of the decision by November, with an announcement to members at the International Directors Forum on 14 November.
Applicants are required to provide a letter of intent from the institution’s director, a topic brief for the Forum with a draft programme, ideas for social events and tours in the area, and details of sustainability and accessibility policies.
Full submission information is available from the Ecsite website, where you can download the full application requirements and application checklist.
Ecsite Annual Conference 2025 and 2026
Full member institutions are also invited to apply to host the Ecsite Annual Conference, with submissions open for both the 2025 and 2026 events.
The Ecsite Annual Conference is a key event for science engagement organisations and has built a reputation for sharing the most innovative projects in the sector. It attracts up to a thousand delegates from over 50 countries, and offers around 100 presentations, discussions, workshops, social activities, and networking events.
The conference is held in a different city each time. The venue is selected from submissions from full member institutions, which delivers the event in partnership with the Ecsite team, Ecsite Board and Conference Programme Committee.
Hosting the conference builds profile and reputation in the international science engagement sector. It also supports local tourism and the local economy, and offers excellent professional development opportunities for the host venue’s team.
Submissions should include a letter of introduction from the organisation director, a venue pitch, details on rooms and facilities, and a budget.
Submission documents can be downloaded from the Ecsite website.
Questions about submissions should be emailed to Wiktor Gajewski.
Ecsite held its 2023 conference from 15 to 17 June. This year’s event was hosted by Esplora Science Centre in Valletta, Malta, an informal educational and leisure facility for visitors of all ages.
