Production Launch Fund

Applications are now closed! 

All applicants will be contacted by April 30th with a decision.

What is it?

Not every artist has the same advantages, but we believe anyone deserves access to a stage to showcase their talent. There is no Fringe without artists, without risk-taking, and without experimentation. This fund, supported by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, offers $200 to $1000 of funding to individual productions bringing work to the Rochester Fringe Festival in 2024.  Funding will be prioritized for shows that face financial barriers.

Who is it for?

The fund is for individual artists, companies, and productions with financial need who would like to bring their show to the Fringe in 2024.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

  • Your show must be registered* for the 2024 Fringe.
  • You must be presenting live and in-person performance.
  • You must have a demonstrated need for funding.

* Shows are registered once they have applied,  accepted an offer from an Official Fringe Venue, and paid their registration fee ($50-$125).

How do I apply?

Applications are now closed for 2024.

ELIGIBLE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ASSESSED BASED ON ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS:

  1. Tell us about your show and how you are progressing with your production plans for Fringe 2024.
  2. How will this funding support your production?
  3. What is your financial need?
  4. Do you identify as a member of a group that has been historically marginalized from advancement in the arts?
  5. Describe your future aspirations and plans for this show beyond Fringe 2024.

How will my application be assessed?

We want to hear about your show in your own words. Our Assessment Committee will look for applications that demonstrate the greatest need and the strongest proposals, taking into consideration the following:

  • Applications should demonstrate how the show captures the bold spirit of the Fringe, taking advantage of the Fringe as a unique platform to tell untold stories.
  • The fund aims to support professional or emerging performers, artists, and creators who are in financial need and can demonstrate an existing level of planning for Fringe 2024.
  • The fund aims to support those who identify as historically marginalized.
  • Applicants should set out clear ambitions for the future life of the work being funded.
  • Applications should describe their future career plans.
  • A budget outline is required. These should be clear, specific, and realistic costs relating to mounting your Fringe 2024 production.

The Assessment Committee will prioritize shows and artists who face barriers to funding in general.

What happens next?

  • You may be contacted with follow-up questions.
  • Awards will be announced by April 30, 2024.
  • Successful applicants will receive an email detailing the next steps following the announcement.
  • Funds will be distributed by May 31, 2024.

If you have any difficulties, please contact us directly via email at info@rochesterfringe.com.