Skiddle & AIF team up to back UK’s independent micro festivals

Small and micro festivals are a huge part of the UK’s live-events landscape. They provide emerging artists with a platform to hone their crafts, bring communities together, and create the kinds of memorable experiences audiences cannot always find elsewhere or afford to attend.

But running an independent festival comes with no shortage of challenges. From building the right team and navigating legal requirements to reaching new audiences, organisers often have to make big things happen with limited resources.

That’s why Skiddle has teamed up once again with the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) to launch a brand new bursary scheme aimed specifically at organisers of very small and micro independent festivals across the UK.

What will successful applicants receive?

Up to 20 successful applicants will receive a year-long membership to the AIF fully funded by Skiddle, giving them access to the organisation’s expert network, legal support, webinars and a range of practical resources built to help independent festivals thrive.

John Rostron, Association of Independent Festivals CEO, said:

“Taking a punt on a membership of something unknown is often a big ask for an operator, but we’ve seen what that’s done for the festivals who were successful when applying for last year’s bursary.

“We are delighted to be working with Skiddle again on this new bursary scheme, which will support the very smallest of festivals so they can get help when they need it, all year long.”

Recipients will also receive a bespoke promotional package from Skiddle, worth up to £5,000. Tailored to each festival’s needs, this may include editorial coverage, paid media and a dedicated spotlight in Skiddle’s Festival Guide – helping organisers get their event in front of more of the right people.

Who can apply?

The bursary is open to independent festivals with a capacity of 2,500 or fewer. The festival must also be in at least its second year of operation.

Whether you’re fine-tuning a concept still in its infancy or aiming to grow an established event, the scheme is designed to give small festival organisers the support and promotional firepower to take their next step with confidence.

Duncan King, Head of Partnerships at Skiddle, said:

“Small and micro festivals play an essential role in the UK’s live music landscape. They create opportunities for emerging artists and bring communities together, providing audiences with experiences they often can’t find anywhere else.

“However, we know that running an independent festival comes with considerable challenges, especially at this scale. Through this bursary, we want to give organisers access to the expertise, resources and promotional support that can make a meaningful difference.

“We’re delighted to be working with AIF again to support the next generation of brilliant independent festivals.”

How to apply

Applications open on Thursday 27th August and close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 17th September. Successful applicants will be selected by Skiddle and the Association of Independent Festivals.

If you run a small or micro independent festival, this is your chance to access practical industry support and a promotional package designed to help your event grow.

For more terms and conditions and to apply for the Skiddle x AIF bursary, follow the link below.