Amid changing demographics, new political climates, technological advances and globalisation, small and mid-sized community-based arts organisations offer a unique space for artistic excellence and innovation, astute leadership connected to community needs and new engagement models in the arts and cultural fields. They also provide a canvas for the works of emerging artists and serve as vital, bustling laboratories supporting artistic and creative experimentation and innovation. This panel will explore the role of three prominent international arts organisations, their primordial beginnings, their respective missions and the challenges they face.