The Generator East

De Generator OOST is a unique and forward-looking development program focused on nurturing the next generation of business leaders within the cultural sector of the eastern Netherlands. Born out of a shared ambition among various cultural institutions, De Generator aims to support business talent in their professional growth so that they can contribute to the sustainable future of art and culture with knowledge, courage, and resilience.

The Program

The Generator combines practical experience, training, coaching, and networking in an intensive program that enables participants to develop broadly as business leaders. Throughout the program, participants work at one or more cultural institutions, where they carry out practical assignments that align with their personal learning questions and development goals.

In addition to the hands-on training days, participants attend regular training sessions that cover current topics such as leadership, governance, organizational development, diversity and inclusion, financing, and long-term planning. The training is led by experienced professionals, executives, and subject matter experts from the sector.

Peer review is an important part of the program. During these sessions, participants share experiences, reflect on practical issues, and learn from each other’s insights. Individual career coaching supports personal growth, professional development, and taking the next steps in one’s career.

For whom.

The Generator is open to a diverse group of participants. These may include people who are already working in the cultural sector and want to take the next step, as well as professionals from other sectors who want to make a career change and apply their talents as business leaders in the arts and culture. The program is aimed at people with ambition, courage, and a desire to grow within a dynamic and socially relevant sector.

Collaboration with Cultural Institutions

The program is made possible through a collaboration among a broad network of cultural institutions in the eastern Netherlands. These partners provide learning opportunities and actively contribute to the program’s content and the guidance of participants. They serve as mentors, share their expertise during training sessions, and ensure an inspiring and professional learning environment.

The collaboration is based on a multi-year commitment, in which partners and participants work together to build a sustainable and future-proof network of business leaders who strengthen the cultural sector.

What are the benefits of De Generator?

• Practical experience within professional cultural institutions
• Access to high-quality training programs and personalized coaching
• Insight into current topics and issues within the cultural sector
• Exchange ideas and network with fellow talented professionals and experienced leaders
• Strengthening leadership skills and organizational knowledge
• A solid foundation for building a successful career in the cultural sector

Continuous Development and Connection

The Generator is a dynamic program that evolves in step with the sector’s developments and needs. By combining learning, working, and networking, the program contributes to sustainable careers and helps the cultural sector in the Eastern Netherlands position itself as future-proof and innovative.

Sign up for the 2026–2027 edition

Interested in participating? Click this link to read all the information about the program, the participating institutions, and how to apply. If you have any questions, please contact Yuna Linde (Program Director at De Generator) at degenerator@cultuuracademy.nl or info@cultuuracademy.nl.