Fundamentals CLUB Q&A

What is the requirement to join Fundamentals CLUB?
Just like in the membership, we expect a group of enthusiasts, unique individuals with opinions and good hearts. Additionally, Clubbers have at least two years of work experience (for creatives who do not yet have this experience, we will offer alternative programs), and they identify with/as the creative industry. Those who have been a member at Fundamentals in the past 3 years may join without admission process.

For all 'new' creatives who want to apply: nice! The following admission process applies: you must initially receive the support of at least 2 members to apply. Current members nominate the new Clubbers. We also always do a group check, ensuring personal safety within the CLUB.
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Does the CLUB cost me anything?
‍Yes. You pay an annual contribution for each year you are a member. Additionally, you commit to a certain number of hours of contribution to the CLUB: CLUB work. If this is not possible, or you do not want to, you can choose a higher annual contribution. The details can be found below.

Why do we pay an annual contribution?
‍We want to meet frequently. Fundamentals covers the basic costs we expect (snacks, drinks, materials, production). Additionally, we ask Clubbers for an annual contribution. This covers all costs except for a part of the CLUB weekend (the former Coach Festival, in March). If you participate in the weekend, we ask for a contribution that will depend on the location and your own preferences (for example, a bed in a dormitory or a private room). We hope everyone will join the Festival, but if you cannot make it, you do not pay extra.

We strive to keep the contribution as low as possible. If you want to invoice the CLUB contribution to your employer, you can choose to have this contribution processed directly into the invoice. Fundamentals does not make a profit from the CLUB.

How much is the annual contribution?
‍If you can contribute 12 hours per year to CLUB work, you pay 150 euros (excluding VAT) for the annual contribution. This is 12.50 euros and 1 hour per month! If this is not possible, you can CLUB along for 570 euros (excluding VAT) per year. We try to keep the contribution for the CLUB weekend around 80 to 90 euros. We work with a direct debit. You pay the annual contribution before your start date.

‍Does the membership continue automatically?
Your new membership with the CLUB starts in the month we discuss. Your CLUB membership continues until you cancel, which you can do at any time. Refund of the annual contribution is not possible.

If you are currently a member at Fundamentals, your CLUB membership can start at the date your current membership ends/renews. If your membership continues until after October, you can of course finish that term within the CLUB.

‍How does 'CLUB work' work?
‍If you choose the lower annual contribution, we agree that you will contribute approximately 12 hours per year to the CLUB. This way we can create valuable programs and apply a lot of your knowledge while keeping overhead low. We look for a suitable role together with you. Initially, this will involve developing/organizing/executing activities within the CLUB, or mentoring young creatives in our network. This second goal aligns directly with another objective we pursue: supporting the young talents we meet in our education, but who are not yet experienced enough for the CLUB, in the vulnerable early phase of their careers.

The type of activities may change in the future but will always contribute to the development of the CLUB. Because we contractually agree on this commitment and you therefore pay a lower annual contribution, it is not entirely voluntary. However, Fundamentals will never use these hours for commercial purposes.

‍How is the CLUB visible on the Fundamentals channels?
‍Starting fall 2024, we will show the coaches working on Fundamentals projects on the website. This marks the end of member profiles on the Fundamentals website. The CLUB is mainly visible through sharing content about our activities, focusing on the group rather than the individual. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to create content together with you for the socials, where we can share the themes we touch upon.

‍Will I get more assignments from Fundamentals as a coach if I join the CLUB?
‍The CLUB does not guarantee work at Fundamentals and is not intended as such. You can even be a member of the CLUB if you have not worked or will not work with Fundamentals. Of course, as we will see each other regularly at CLUB moments, the chance of working with each other, or with Fundamentals, increases.

‍Good to Know
• Fundamentals organizes more and more events, workshops, and other programs. Where possible, we offer you access to these programs with CLUB discounts.
• Fundamentals is a growing network in which the role of the designer is closely monitored. By standing close to our core team as a CLUB, you are the first to know what is happening in the sector.
• As entrepreneurs, you can mark the CLUB costs as business expenses. This provides a tax advantage as you lower your profit. Additionally, the CLUB operates as a professional group, which sometimes allows you to reimburse the costs with your employer.
• You can share your membership with the CLUB on LinkedIn or your own website to show that you are connected and actively participating in the deepening of your field.