Scottish new writing project closes after funding rejection

An Edinburgh-based writing showcase and networking event says it is closing for the foreseeable future after missing out on Creative Scotland project funding.

Page2Stage had previously received Creative Scotland Open Fund grants of almost £7,500 and £19,000 in 2022 and 2023.

Its funding bid for 2024 has been rejected twice, meaning it cannot apply again, as per Creative Scotland’s funding guidelines.

The funder says it is currently only able to support 30% of Open Fund applications, despite 75% being recommended for funding. 

“Difficult decisions are being made on a daily basis,” Creative Scotland said in a statement, adding that “demand is increasing while the funding available to us is not”.

Page2Stage Producer Michelle McKay told The Stage that despite the closure, the event is regrouping and looking at what other funding is available: “We are not giving up because we absolutely believe in what we do,” McKay said.