Culture Secretary Announces £1.8M for Arts and Culture Festivals

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Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has announced £1.8 million in grants for arts and culture festivals across Scotland to boost creativity and global recognition.

Culture Secretary announces £1.8 million for arts and culture festivals

The Scottish Government said the funding would be made available to non-profits in the culture sector. Angus Robertson said the money will be made available to non-profit arts and culture festivals at the heart of our culture sector and national life. The Scottish Government said it is to help push creative boundaries and enhance their international reputation on the world stage. Awards of up to £200,000 will be available in the first year and will be administered by Creative Scotland.

Investing in Festivals

The Government said the grants can be used for raising the international profile of festivals and to support other areas vital to their success, such as for sector and talent development and to open access to educational groups.

By increasing investment into festivals across the country we are supporting their commissions of and collaborations on new and exciting works, increasing opportunities for participation in creative pursuits and ensuring Scotland’s cultural highlights can be enjoyed at home and abroad.

Collaboration and Support

Mr Robertson highlighted the importance of collaboration with the sector and the role of the Strategic Partnership for Festivals in supporting the implementation and development of the new fund. Iain Munro, chief executive of Creative Scotland, emphasized the opportunity to profile creative work and strengthen Scotland's international reputation through the expanded festivals fund.

Working with festivals nationwide, this investment will support artists, widen community engagement and further strengthen Scotland’s impressive international reputation.

Published on 18 August 2025 by UKFG

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