What is APF Hub Hire?
APF Hub Hire is a pilot programme providing access to subsidised exhibition and event space at Acme Propeller Factory for artists, cultural practitioners, artist groups, collectives, educational institutions and not-for-profit organisations.
The programme offers 2, 3 and 4-week hire periods and aims to support a broad range of cultural activity, including exhibitions, workshops, talks, crit groups and public programmes.
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from:
- Individual artists
- Artist groups and collectives
- Cultural practitioners
- Freelance curators
- Educational institutions and student groups
- Not-for-profit arts and cultural organisations
Both Acme tenants and non-tenants are eligible to apply.
How are applications assessed?
Applications are assessed on the basis of:
- Eligibility against the published criteria
- Practical suitability for the space
- Operational feasibility
- Health and safety considerations
Acme does not assess applications based on artistic quality, subject matter or curatorial preference.
Who makes decisions about eligibility and scheduling?
Applications are reviewed by Acme staff to confirm that they meet the published eligibility criteria and can be safely and practically accommodated within the space.
Where multiple eligible applications request the same dates and demand exceeds availability, bookings will be allocated through a random selection process.
Who should I contact if I have questions about the programme or my booking?
Acme staff manage enquiries during the application process.
Once a booking has been confirmed, successful applicants will be supported by the APF Hub Hire Coordinator, who acts as the main point of contact throughout the hire period.
What does Acme mean by reputational risk?
Acme reserves the right not to confirm or continue a booking where a proposed activity may conflict with our charitable objectives, legal responsibilities, safeguarding obligations, organisational policies or the safe operation of our buildings.
Any concerns are assessed on a case-by-case basis using Acme's existing policies and procedures.
Can I apply for a one-day event?
The programme is primarily designed for projects that make use of the space over a 2, 3 or 4-week hire period.
Standalone one-day hires are not currently part of the open call programme. However, Acme may occasionally programme one-day activities separately or consider proposals where they form part of a wider approved project.
Can workshops, talks or learning activities take place in the space?
Yes. Workshops, talks, crit groups, symposia and courses are eligible, provided they can be safely delivered within the space and comply with the programme criteria.
Does Acme provide marketing or communications support?
No. Successful applicants are responsible for promoting their own exhibitions, events and public programmes.
Acme may list activity on its website or other channels at its discretion, but applicants should not expect communications, marketing or audience development support as part of the hire arrangement.
Does Acme provide exhibition invigilation or event staffing?
No. Hirers are responsible for ensuring that their exhibition or event is adequately staffed, supervised and invigilated throughout the hire period.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Successful applicants will be responsible for arranging appropriate insurance cover for the duration of their hire period.
Are student groups eligible to apply?
Yes. Student groups are welcome to apply.
Where a project is being delivered independently of a school, college or university, applicants should demonstrate that they have the skills, capacity and supervision arrangements required to safely deliver their proposed activity.
Applicants under the age of 18 are not eligible.
Do I need funding in place before applying?
No. You may apply if you are self-funded, have secured funding, or are awaiting the outcome of a funding application.
If your project depends on funding that has not yet been confirmed, we will ask you to explain your timetable and contingency plans as part of the application process.
Can I choose my preferred dates?
Yes. Applicants are asked to indicate their preferred booking length and first, second and third choice months.
Acme will seek to accommodate preferences wherever possible, although requested dates cannot be guaranteed.
What happens if there are more applications than available dates?
Where demand exceeds availability, eligible applications will be allocated dates through a random selection process.
This approach supports fair and transparent access to the programme while avoiding curatorial selection.
Can I appeal a decision?
No. Decisions regarding eligibility, scheduling and allocation of dates are final and there is no appeals process.
Is the space accessible?
Yes. The APF Hub Hire space is located on the ground floor and is step-free.
If you have specific access requirements or would like further information about the space before applying, please contact Acme and we will be happy to discuss your needs.