Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership is taking part in a new fundraising campaign aiming to raise £10,000 in just one week.
And whatever generous amount it does receive by next Tuesday, March 26, will be doubled as part of a groundbreaking new Arts for Impact campaign, launched by Big Give.
This could see the Cultural Partnership, working with arts charity Tees Valley Arts, receive up to £20,000 to make Middlesbrough the most creative town in the UK.
Gaye Kirby, Creative Programmes and Partnerships Manager at Middlesbrough Council, said: “To be involved in the Arts for Impact campaign is a wonderful opportunity for us to fund a range of unique cultural experiences.
“We have a fantastic opportunity to harness the power of creativity to truly realise Middlesbrough’s potential as a great place for all who live and work here, where arts and culture is accessible, affordable and benefits everyone.
“With the generous support of donations, we can enhance our programming to bring even more colour and vibrancy to Middlesbrough, attracting visitors and encouraging everyone to reimagine what our town can be.”
Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership is hoping the funding will allow them to develop arts and cultural spaces which are more accessible and welcoming to artists, participants, and audiences.
James Beighton of Tees Valley Arts said: “Middlesbrough is not just a town; it's a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation.
“This year, our goal is to raise a total of £10,000. With your support, we can access an additional £10,000 from the Big Give’s matching pot, doubling the impact of our efforts.
“Every online donation, no matter how big or small, brings us closer to our target and allows us to continue the important work we are deeply passionate about. Together, let's unleash the boundless creativity and potential of Middlesbrough."
James Reed CBE, Chair of Trustees for Big Give, the UK’s most successful match funding platform, said: “Today marks the culmination of many months of hard work to launch this important campaign.
“Arts charities play a central and crucial role in the lives of the people they support, and their time and services are being called upon now more than ever. They have endured many cuts and disappointments, so securing funding for the charities from our match funders and the public is especially important.
“I am pleased that today is the start of our financial fight back, and I hope the campaign is widely and generously supported.”
To donate to the Middlesbrough Cultural Partnership’s cause, visit the Big Give website here.