£1.8 million for Scotland’s world-class arts festivals

Fourteen major festivals in Edinburgh and Glasgow will receive a share of this year’s £1.8 million Expo Fund.

Established in 2007 by the Scottish Government, the Expo Fund's aim is to build innovation across the festivals and maximise national and international opportunities for the artists contributing to the festivals.

This year for the first time, the Glasgow Film Festival and the biennial Sonica visual art and sonic festival will receive funding.

Culture Minister Christina McKelvie said:

“Scotland’s major festivals are a wonderful showcase for the extraordinary range of artistic talent we have in this country. The Expo Fund not only helps to support performances at home, but enables artists to find new audiences further afield. 

“The last few years have been challenging for the culture sector, especially festivals and events. I’m pleased that we are able to continue this important fund and include two more Glasgow-based festivals who will receive support for the first time.”

Creative Scotland Chief Executive Iain Munro said:

“Scotland is known across the globe for its outstanding array of world-class festivals. The Expo Fund is vital in raising the international profile of these festivals and enabling them to enhance their programmes through exciting and innovative co-productions and collaborations.

“We welcome the Scottish Government’s decision to recognise the distinct international profile and work of Sonica and Glasgow Film Festival through Expo funding. They join Celtic Connections, Glasgow International and the Edinburgh Festivals, further expanding the diversity of opportunities and inspirational work reaching international audiences.”

Background

Expo Fund 2023-24 recipients: