Festivals act as cultural anchors, economic drivers, and social gathering spaces – but rising costs are putting increasing pressure on their financial sustainability. While EU programs like Creative Europe promote cultural funding across Europe, national initiatives like Initiative Musik (Germany) provide targeted support.

What structures are needed to develop long-term, forward-thinking funding models for festivals?

This panel explores the key factors that contribute to successful festival funding, the strategic planning and political decisions required, and how decision-makers can be urged to secure festivals as an essential part of cultural heritage.

Moderation: Pamela Owusu Brenyah (Musicboard Berlin)

Speaker:

John Rostron (Association of Independent Festivals)

Anna van Nunen (ESNS)

Tatjana Kaube (Initiative Musik gGmbH)