Creative Scotland Investment Strands

Creative Scotland, the national agency for arts and screen in Scotland, channels public funding into the sector through various investment strands designed to support artists, organizations, and creative projects. These strands are not static; they evolve in response to changing needs and priorities within the Scottish cultural landscape. Understanding these strands is key to accessing funding and contributing to the vibrancy of Scotland’s creative sector.

Regular Funding

A cornerstone of Creative Scotland’s investment is Regular Funding. This multi-year support is aimed at organizations delivering a sustained and significant contribution to the arts and creative industries. These are often established companies with a proven track record, strategic vision, and the capacity to deliver on their proposed activity. The purpose of Regular Funding is to provide stability, allowing organizations to focus on long-term planning, artistic development, and audience engagement. Receiving Regular Funding requires a rigorous application process showcasing artistic excellence, financial sustainability, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Open Fund

The Open Fund is designed for individuals and organizations seeking project-based funding. It’s a more flexible and accessible route for artists, writers, filmmakers, and other creatives to realize specific ambitions. The Open Fund accepts applications throughout the year, making it responsive to emerging opportunities and urgent needs. Applications are assessed based on the artistic merit of the project, its potential impact, and the applicant’s ability to deliver the proposed work. This strand supports a diverse range of activities, from exhibitions and performances to film productions and literary publications.

Targeted Funding Programs

Beyond the broader Regular and Open Funds, Creative Scotland operates a series of targeted funding programs designed to address specific needs and priorities within the sector. These programs may focus on areas such as youth arts, traditional arts, film development, or international collaborations. The focus of these programs can change over time, reflecting the evolving strategic objectives of Creative Scotland. Checking the Creative Scotland website for current opportunities is crucial for anyone seeking funding in a particular area.

Place Partnership

Creative Scotland also recognizes the importance of place in shaping artistic expression and cultural identity. Through Place Partnership initiatives, they support collaborative projects that aim to strengthen the cultural infrastructure and creative capacity of specific communities. These initiatives often involve partnerships between local authorities, arts organizations, and community groups, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in the cultural life of a particular area.

Screen Funding

A significant portion of Creative Scotland’s investment is directed towards the screen sector, supporting film production, television development, and screen skills training. This funding supports both established production companies and emerging filmmakers, helping to build a sustainable and internationally competitive screen industry in Scotland. A dedicated team within Creative Scotland manages this portfolio, offering tailored support to screen creatives at all stages of their careers.

Navigating these investment strands requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of Creative Scotland’s priorities. Visiting their website and engaging with their team are essential steps for anyone seeking funding to support their creative endeavors.