Phoebe Waller-Bridge launches EdFringe grant scheme

The grants can be spent on any costs associated with presenting a show at the Edinburgh Fringe and will be awarded through a simple, 600-word application process that opens on March 10 and closes on March 24 – but only UK-based performers can apply.

The applications will be assessed by an external panel, with successful applicants awarded the money up front with no requirement to provide an end-of-grant report.

The fund has been partly supported by the Fleabag for Charity campaign, which raised money during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns through streaming a filmed version of Waller-Bridge’s hit play online.

Waller-Bridge, who is honorary president of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe society, said: “Edinburgh Fringe gave Fleabag a game-changing platform for everyone involved and we are thrilled that the show can continue to pay it forward to the creatives of tomorrow.”

The announcement of the grants comes amid concerns about the affordability and accessibility of the annual event, particularly over the cost of accommodation in Edinburgh in August after a local crackdown on short-term let accommodation.

Speaking to The Stage, McCarthy said that providing financial support for artists was a priority for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, and that channelling donations from successful fringe alumni and other patrons into funds for artists was part of her plan to do so.

McCarthy said: “We appreciate that doing a full run in Edinburgh in August is financially challenging, so we are looking at every possible lever we can pull to help people.”

She added: “We want to be able to support artists on an ongoing basis. This pilot fund establishes an easy mechanism for how we do that.”