Big Dyke Energy launches grant to ‘Save Queer Raves’
Big Dyke Energy (BDE) has launched a new grant scheme to support and nurture LGBTQIA+ grassroots music event organisers. The scheme, which is called ‘Save Queer Raves’, will provide both financial and mentorship opportunities across the UK.
It has been created in response to the impact of the cost of living crisis and the increased costs associated with holding live events.
This includes minimum bar spends, venue fees, travel costs, artist fees, exclusivities and promotional materials all escalating in price, which puts strain on independent event organisers. “Speaking to fellow grassroots promoters across the industry over the past few months, it has become evident that the queer-run, independent music-scene is now at a concerning tipping point,” wrote BDE on the announcement of ‘Save Queer Raves’.
To fund the grant scheme, BDE has created a crowdfunding page to raise funds to support ten grassroot music organisers from February 2024.
