Small Venues Fund Administrator

The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority (North East MSA) is seeking an experienced Fund Administrator to deliver a £2.45 million Small Venues Fund, which aims to support creative grassroots venues across North East England. This fund is part of a £104 million investment package announced in March 2026 to boost the region's creative industries and create new jobs and opportunities. The Fund Administrator will provide comprehensive grant administration services for the phased programme, including: programme setup and mobilisation, applicant support and enquiry handling, Expression of Interest and full application management, application appraisal and due diligence, independent assessment panel administration, grant contracting and subsidy control compliance, grant monitoring and compliance, financial management and payment processing, reporting and management information, and programme evaluation support. The Small Venues Fund will provide resources and capacity to grassroots venues, enabling them to host events and support creatives to thrive. The fund will support an array of artists and venue operators, increase touring artist opportunities, boost visitor economy impact, and raise the profile of creative facilities regionally and beyond. The contract value is up to £250,000 excluding VAT for the full duration. The administrator should have demonstrated experience in public sector grant administration and knowledge of the creative and cultural sector.