More support for festivals
A further £1.8 million will be directed towards expanding arts and cultural festival support across Scotland an announcement this week has confirmed.
Readers will note this is the third week I have written about new culture funding. This development follows the Scottish Government’s commitment to increasing culture spending, as reflected in recent budget decisions. While the sector continues to face difficult circumstances, the government is taking steps to support and engage with the sector.
The new funding is designed to expand the reach of festival support beyond flagship events, enabling a wider range of arts and cultural festivals across Scotland to apply. The fund will be administered by Creative Scotland, with grants of up to £200,000 in the first year. Support can be used to strengthen international profiles, broaden access for schools and communities, and help develop sector resilience.
This initiative complements wider funding commitments set out in the 2025-26 Budget, which provided an uplift of £34m for culture. That included investment in Creative Scotland’s multi-year programmes, national collections, youth music, screen production, and other arts support.
The expansion of the Festivals EXPO Fund is especially significant. The additional resources will allow regional and community festivals to benefit, ensuring that audiences and artists across the country are included. This broadening of reach reflects recognition that cultural activity contributes to local identity, economic value, tourism and participation.
The combined approach demonstrates that the Scottish Government is working to ensure festivals and cultural activity remain accessible, resilient and supported. While ongoing challenges remain, this package underlines a sustained policy commitment.
Angus Robertson is SNP MSP for Edinburgh Central and Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Secretary