Stage is set for new arts grants scheme to boost city’s live events

A new funding package to support an exciting programme of post-lockdown live events and performances across Leeds has been launched this week.

The innovative Leeds Inspired LIVE grants scheme is aimed at harnessing the power of culture and the arts to help get the city safely back on its feet after the pandemic.

From today, local groups and organisations will be able to apply for funding from £500 up to £2,500 to bring their colourful and imaginative ideas to life and encourage live audiences back into the city and local centres.

Applications for grants from the new Leeds Inspired LIVE scheme are expected from a range of artists, venues, performers and event planners, with the project forming part of the council’s ongoing efforts to help the city’s economic and cultural recovery.

Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy and culture, said: “Live events have always been such a crucial part of what makes Leeds tick and we know how much people have missed that unique buzz of experiencing a live performance over the past year.

“It has also been an incredibly tough time for our cultural and creative sector, with many of their activities being curtailed by the pandemic, and they have shown inspiring resilience and invention to adapt and keep going.

“This support package will be the catalyst for the creation of a new programme of safe, live events tailored for post-lockdown Leeds which will simultaneously give our creative and cultural sector a lift while also boosting our local economy and giving people an added incentive to enjoy Leeds.”

The Leeds Inspired LIVE scheme is part of a series of measures the council is taking to support businesses and boost footfall after lockdown.

Other initiatives include the ReDiscover Leeds campaign through Visit Leeds, aimed at boosting visitor numbers throughout summer and Christmas 2021 and support for #BuyLeeds, which encourages shoppers and consumers so to buy local.

The Leeds Inspired LIVE scheme will also complement the existing Leeds Inspired grant scheme, which will continue to support local arts and cultural organisations each month.

For more details on Leeds Inspired LIVE, including how to apply for a grant, visit: https://www.leedsinspired.co.uk/grants

ENDS