Launch of Scotland’s Events Recovery Fund (SERF)

Scotland’s Events Recovery Fund (SERF) has been set up to help the events sector in Scotland plan and deliver events through to the end of 2021, and to provide support as the industry responds and adapts to the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19).

The fund aims to help restart the events sector as restrictions are eased, and address additional costs which may be incurred as a result of new safety requirements, allowing communities and the public to regain confidence in hosting and attending events.

A total of £2.75 million is available for events planned to take place before the end of 2021. It is anticipated that up to £1.5 million may be awarded for applications received up to 31 December 2020. The remainder will be retained to support applications received between 1 January and 31 March 2021.

There are two routes to funding available:

Community events and events with existing EventScotland funding offers. Awards of between £1,000 and £5,000 are available for event organisers, including smaller scale/ community focused events which do not normally support the visitor economy. Funds can be used to support the core staging costs and safe delivery of an event, including any additional COVID-19 related hygiene measures.

Events supporting the visitor economy (eg regional and Scottish domestic tourism). Awards of between £5,000 and £35,000 are available to larger scale events. Funds can be used to support the core staging costs and safe delivery of an event, including any additional COVID-19 related hygiene measures.

Applications must come from the following types of organisations in Scotland: self-employed (through limited company or as a sole trader), partnerships and incorporated businesses, charitable organisations and community groups.

This is an open programme without a fixed application deadline.

More information about this funding opportunity and the application process is available on the GRANTfinder funding information platform. GRANTfinder provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on funding news and policy. To find out more about how GRANTfinder can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.