Purpose of this fund

The decision-making panel includes people with experience related to classical, traditional, and community music. They are searching for creative, challenging, and original projects that explore cultures and traditions, past and present. They have a particular interest in historically-informed projects, related to classical and traditional music of all periods, that tour across Scotland. All projects need to include a public sharing or performance element.

The Fund may also consider community projects that push boundaries, strive for excellence, and enable people to access new musical experiences.

Regarding funding for studies, the Fund will only consider applications related to specialist one-off courses or masterclasses, not full academic programmes. The maximum for such bursaries is £500.

Additional criteria

The project must be based in Scotland or have a clear Scottish connection. For the budget section of the application form, applicants must list all project costs clearly and accurately. Please provide as much detail as possible.

You must have other funding for your project before applying to the Cockaigne Fund. The decision-making panel prioritise projects that are well developed and close to reaching their fundraising target. There is a limit of one application per calendar year, and a lifetime maximum of three grants per individual/organisation. 

Who can apply?

The Cockaigne Fund welcomes applications from individuals and organisations.

Organisations must meet Foundation Scotland’s common eligibility criteria. Please note that smaller organisations are prioritised, and make sure to check the criteria before applying.

Individuals must be self-employed and registered with HMRC, or in full-time education. All applicants are required to provide a recent bank statement.

What can’t be funded?

• Ongoing projects/programmes that require year-on-year or consistent funding.
• Projects primarily focused on therapy or wellbeing.
• Buying instruments (hiring instruments can be considered)
• While not strictly excluded, projects focused on working with schools or school-aged young people are rarely supported.

Please see Foundation Scotland’s what we can’t fund page.