Fund launched to support Sheffield's culture sector

A new charitable fund has been launched to support grassroots arts and cultural projects across Sheffield.

The Sheffield Arts and Culture Fund, established and managed by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF), will provide grants to small arts organisations and community-led cultural initiatives throughout the city.

Backed by initial investment from Sheffield City Council and donations from local supporters, the fund aims to create a long-term source of funding for projects that strengthen communities, improve wellbeing, develop skills, celebrate heritage and diversity, and foster pride in local places.

Grant applications are expected to open later this year.

Martin Singer DL, chief executive of SYCF, said: “This investment in the Sheffield Arts and Culture Fund will provide vital support for grassroots projects that bring people together, celebrate local identity and cultural diversity and help build thriving communities.

“We’re proud to be partnering with generous local philanthropists and Culture Sheffield to create a lasting source of funding for the city’s cultural sector. 

“But this is just the beginning.

“Over the coming months, we’ll be working to attract further investment and grow the fund so it can support even more community organisations and creative projects across Sheffield.

“Our ambition is to build a permanent community fund that benefits future generations, and we invite businesses, organisations and individuals to be part of that vision. 

“Every contribution, large or small, will create opportunities for local people and strengthen Sheffield’s cultural life.”

The launch comes as Sheffield celebrates being longlisted for UK City of Culture (UKCoC) 2029, highlighting the city’s growing cultural profile.

Linda Bloomfield, from arts group RivelinCo, which delivers creative programmes in community venues across north Sheffield, added: “We’re delighted to hear about the new SYCF grant, which aims to support grassroots arts and culture in Sheffield. 

“We are a small cultural organisation working with communities across North Sheffield.

“Our work supports people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, develop new skills, build confidence, and celebrate pride in place. 

“Most of our work is free at the point of access, so we can't do what we do without this kind of support.

“We’re excited to see the big difference it will make in our neighbourhood and many others.”

The initiative forms part of Sheffield City Council’s ten-year Culture Strategy and will be delivered in partnership with SYCF, which is marking its 40th anniversary this year.

A spokesperson for Sheffield City Council added: “Our longlisting for UK City of Culture is a fantastic reflection of the spirit of our cultural scene, but we need to support the organisations who make this city what it is. 

“This grant scheme puts Sheffield in an even better position as we begin constructing the UKCoC bid, and we’re looking forward to seeing the programmes that come out of it!”

Neil MacDonald OBE, SYCF patron and long-term supporter of the Foundation, added: “I am delighted to support the launch of the new Sheffield Arts and Culture Fund.

“Sheffield has a thriving cultural sector, and at its heart are amazing community organisations and projects. 

“This fund will provide much needed financial support for these grass roots organisations to ensure they thrive and continue to benefit our local communities.

“I would urge others to join this initiative. 

“Creating a lasting source of funding must be the goal, so that we can invest even more in our local people.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.