Scheme backed by Joe Lycett and Nish Kumar

Applications have opened for £5,000 grants to help artists and companies hoping to take a show to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for the first time.

Comedians Joe Lycett and Nish Kumar have helped contribute to the Shedload-of-Future Fund, which is offering five bursaries this year – up from three in 2025. The money will help cover costs such as travel, accommodation, marketing, set design and performers' fees.

The fund is open to UK-based artists or companies across theatre, comedy, music and the performing arts, with a particular focus on those without an existing high profile or facing financial barriers to participation. Applications are via shedinburgh.com/fund.

It is run by Shedinburgh and Francesca Moody, pictured, a producer whose credits include Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, who said the Fringe remained essential for emerging talent despite rising costs.

'Careers are launched, new stories are told, life-long collaborations begin,' she said. 'We risk losing the next generation of British talent.'

Lycett said the Fringe had been formative for him but that costs were 'completely prohibitive’ now, while Kumar said financial barriers were 'higher than ever' and that initiatives like this 'make a real difference'.

Further additional funding this year comes from PR company Multitude Media,  production company Plosive, comedian and live entertainment agency Mick Perrin Worldwide.

Among the 2025 recipients, Cara & Kelly Are Best Friends Forever For Life by Mojola Akinyemi went on to play Soho Theatre, while House Party by Chakira Alin is transferring to Pleasance London before returning to the Fringe this summer.

The application has four stages and includes three short written questions. Those who would prefer to apply by video can contact info@shedinburgh.com.

Published: 11 Mar 2026