Grant Administrator for North East Small Venues Fund

The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority is seeking an experienced external grant administrator to manage the Small Venues Fund, a £2.45 million programme designed to support creative grassroots venues across North East England. This is part of a £104 million investment package announced in March 2026 to boost the region's creative industries and create jobs. The Fund Administrator will provide full grant administration services including programme setup, applicant support, application processing, financial management, compliance checks, and reporting. Key responsibilities include managing expressions of interest and full applications, conducting due diligence, administering an independent assessment panel, ensuring subsidy control compliance, monitoring grants, and supporting programme evaluation. The contract value is up to £250,000 (excluding VAT) and will be delivered on a phased basis. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in public sector grant administration and knowledge of the creative and cultural sector. This is a comprehensive service delivery role managing the complete lifecycle of grant awards from initial enquiry through project closure, with £2.2 million allocated for direct grant awards to venues.