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ACCÈS REFRAIN is a resource-sharing project designed to make it easier for festivals and cultural events across Quebec—and throughout Canada—to share resources via a mobile app or desktop version.

Any type of equipment can be requested or offered for sharing, and REFRAIN is also working toward adding the sharing of human resources during 2026.

A CONSTRUCTIVE RESPONSE TO THE CHALLENGES OF THE ARTS, TOURISM, AND EVENT INDUSTRIES

Artistic festivals and many cultural events face numerous challenges, particularly economic ones. A recent REFRAIN survey of its members shows that nearly half of festivals saw an increase in attendance this year. At the same time, they are confronted with reduced—or even completely absent—provincial and federal public funding.

This decrease in support, combined with inflation and rising production costs—amounting to a 30% to 40% increase in expenses—has created significant financial shortfalls for festivals and cultural events. In addition, with equipment, resources, and skilled workers in short supply, festivals and events must rely on creativity to deliver the experiences so valued by residents and tourists alike.

ACCÈS REFRAIN: A TOOL THAT ACCELERATES COLLABORATION AND MEETS REAL NEEDS

Rather than simply enduring these challenges, REFRAIN designed a proactive and bold solution: a resource-sharing initiative rooted in the values of collaboration and mutual support.

This project focuses on three main objectives:

1-Pooling equipment from festivals and events so it can be shared, exchanged, or rented at affordable rates. Items such as bar equipment, signage, tools, and stage gear—available in festival inventories—can be listed and shared on the ACCÈS REFRAIN platform, making them accessible to other organizations.

2-Sharing human resources to benefit from expertise and create quality jobs year-round. For example, an accounting assistant could work for three festivals or events, creating a full-time position. This feature will be available in 2026.

3-Optimizing purchases by grouping orders to obtain better pricing, and enabling joint calls for tenders to maximize purchasing or rental efficiency. Innovation will open the door to many new possibilities. This feature will also be available in 2026.

The more festivals and events use the application, the more they will get to know each other, build trust, and collaborate more effectively to improve the organization and accessibility of their respective events.

To bring this vision to life, REFRAIN partnered with Quebec-based startup Partage Club, known for its expertise in managing collaborative platforms. Sharing the same values, the collaboration between the two organizations has been both productive and inspiring, leading to a project that introduces a whole new way of using resources. The ACCÈS REFRAIN platform will make it easier for festivals and events to share resources, strengthen collaboration between users, and generate savings.

What exactly is resource sharing (“mutualisation”)?


  • It means pooling, sharing, or exchanging objects, goods, services, or risks.

  • It’s an economic, environmental, and social action for organizations with shared goals.

  • It’s an approach based on social values of sharing, collaboration, and openness, with a focus on efficiency and collective savings.

  • It’s an economic model that benefits and simplifies life for its users.


To learn more about Partage Club, visit their website: www.partage.club

Who can use ACCÈS REFRAIN?
REFRAIN members and any Canadian non-profit organization (NPO) involved in organizing events.

What is the cost of an annual ACCÈS REFRAIN subscription?

  • Launch price: $100/year until December 31, 2025

  • Regular price: $150/year starting January 1, 2026

How to subscribe to ACCÈS REFRAIN:

1-Complete the subscription form to confirm your eligibility.

2-Once submitted, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. If eligible, you’ll receive a link (via Stripe) to pay your annual membership online.

3-Once payment is processed, you’ll receive a unique activation code by email.

4-Download the mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.

5-Create a new account and enter the activation code (we recommend using a general organization email such as info@myevent.com to make it easier to share access among team members).

6-Start exploring, offering, or booking available resources!


Questions about ACCÈS REFRAIN?

We invite you to consult our FAQ or contact us at accesrefrain@lerefrain.com



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