adidas and Factory International return with Originals Creator Network North, a six-month development programme for emerging creatives in Greater Manchester.
Skiddle Staff
Date published: 29th Jan 2026
adidas and Factory International have teamed up once again to launch Originals Creator Network North, a six-month development opportunity designed to support and elevate emerging creatives across Greater Manchester.
Open to 20 creatives aged 18–30 who live in the area, the programme offers hands-on industry experience, mentorship, and paid support, with a focus on addressing underrepresentation in the creative industries. With participants receiving a £600 bursary, they will work towards a final public showcase at Aviva Studios, responding to a live creative brief in collaboration with industry professionals.
Applications for the adidas x Factory International Originals Creator Network North are now open - Apply Here
The Originals Creator Network North programme is structured across five phases, guiding participants from introduction through to public exhibition:
Phase 1 | Connect
An introduction to the OCNN programme and cohort, and a visit to adidas HQ, home of the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe.
Phase 2 | Inspire
Thursday evening masterclasses led by industry and local leaders, designed to inspire creativity and provide industry insight.
Phase 3 | Develop
Creatively respond to the given brief in devised teams.
Phase 4 | Create
Bring your idea to life, with production supported by Factory International and adidas.
Phase 5 | Share
An exhibition of the final creative works in the Warehouse at Aviva Studios.
Applications for Originals Creator Network North close on Monday, 23rd February at 9am, with shortlisted applicants invited to an open recruitment day in the week beginning Monday 2 March, followed by second interviews on Thursday 12 March.
The programme will run across a mix of full-day and evening sessions, with a full schedule shared with successful applicants ahead of the start date.
If you are interested and want more information, an online information webinar will take place on Wednesday, 11th February from 6pm to 7pm, for anyone wanting to learn more about the programme or application process. To sign up, email originalscnn@factoryinternational.org
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Header image credit: Factory International
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