Stage One

START UP FUND FOR NEW PRODUCERS

The Start-Up Fund is an investment scheme that aims to kick-start the careers of outstanding new commercial theatre producers by awarding them £25,000 investment into a West End or Commercial Touring Production. The Fund is supported by individuals, trusts and businesses that care about the future of commercial theatre. 

'We have always tried to put a little something back into the very roots of the business that supports us as a company. As with most SME's we don't have an exhaustive budget for sponsorship but I believe what Stage One is doing is vital to the lifeblood of UK Theatre.'
Nick Dooner, Luckings Transport

Launched in May 2010, the first recipient of Start Up Funding was Becky Barber for her debut West End production, an adaptation of Sebastian Faulks's Birdsong directed by Trevor Nunn. 'A great theatrical triumph.'

Start-Up Fund applications are only accepted from producers that have already been awarded a place on the Stage One Workshop, Apprentice Scheme or received a Bursary. The Start Up Investment will have to be matched with additional investment raised by the new producer, giving them a minimum £50,000 stake in a new production. Applicants will not normally have more than 2 commercial productions to their name. The aim is to invest in four individuals per annum. When the annual funds have been spent, the scheme will be closed for applications until the start of the next cycle.

Full Terms and Conditions are detailed in the Application Form and Information.

How to Apply

• Download the Start-Up Application Information and Start-Up Application Form under DOWNLOADS
• Read both forms carefully and if you are eligible fill out the Application Form and submit with all other Investor Documentation to enquiries@stageone.uk.com. If you are unsure if you are eligible, please contact Stage One prior to investing time in an application.
• If your application meets the initial criteria you will be invited to an interview and the panel will then decide whether to submit the application to the Start-Up Investment Committee for consideration.
• If you are awarded a Start-Up Investment the release of money is subject to the applicant fulfilling all terms and conditions of Stage One's agreement.

The Start Up Fund would not be possible without the generous support of many industry suppliers, agents, businesses and individuals. They are all committed to helping new producers and are listed in The Little Black Book (see DOWNLOADS or contact katie@stageone.uk.com to request a printed copy).

If you would like to support the future of our industry, and be acknowledged alongside the following donors, please contact zoe@stageone.uk.com

'It is heartening to know that so much is being done to ensure that the lifeblood of theatre continues to flow.'
Alastair Simpson, Kirwin & Simpson

Thank you to the following:

Organisations

Individuals