What We Do
We are problem-solvers, findings ways to make the lives of those driving cultural activity easier. Hired by grassroots cultural groups, organisations, local authorities, funders, and national cultural development bodies, we specialise in the work that goes on behind-the-scenes: advising on strategy; fundraising; monitoring; evaluating; reporting, and more. We help develop the foundations upon which great cultural work stands.
About Us
Incorporated in late 2024, Expressing Scotland CIC is a cultural agency based in Scotland with a focus on cultural rights and cultural democracy.
We recognised that those delivering living heritage, arts, and everyday cultural activities across Scotland often needed additional behind-the-scenes specialist support to make their programmes and activities the best they could be, but, at the same time, we knew that not all groups and organisations could afford the market rate for these services.
We decided to build our company on a cross-subsidy financial model. This means that well-funded groups and organisations pay market rates for our services and a portion of that income goes to subsidise support for those who can least afford it.
As a Community Interest Company, this is where we deliver our community benefit.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US
Stephen O'Neill
City Events Manager,
Aberdeen City Council
Simon [Director] is an outstanding professional who brings a wealth of expertise in cultural programming and planning. Working with Expressing Scotland is always a joy, as they consistently demonstrate professionalism, creativity, and dedication. I have no hesitation in recommending them and look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with them again in the near future.
Janos Lang
Creative Director
Ando Glaso, Glasgow
Expressing Scotland have supported us with everything from developing new ideas and projects to fundraising, project management and evaluation. Their support has helped us secure significant multi-year funding from both Creative Scotland and Glasgow City Council, which has made a real difference to the growth and stability of our organisation.
What I value most is that they really understand who we are, what we are trying to achieve and the communities we work with. It feels like they are genuinely invested in helping us succeed.
Adedeji Ekundayo & Adebayo Winsala Directors
Raven AfriKulture, Aberdeen
Working with Expressing Scotland has been truly transformative for Raven Afrikulture and the work we do within cultural and creative spaces. Their support has gone far beyond surface-level engagement, helping us strengthen our foundation as an organisation committed to uplifting voices that are often unheard.
A key area of impact has been their guidance in structuring and writing grant applications. This not only enabled us to access vital funding, but also gave us the confidence to tell our story more effectively and place our work within wider cultural conversations.
Sodhi
Talking Tabla
Glasgow
Expressing Scotland’s guidance on my Creative Scotland application was invaluable. They helped me shape my ideas clearly and professionally, and, thanks to their support, the application was successful. I’d highly recommend them to any artist looking for knowledgeable and encouraging funding support.
Ahashan Habib
Aberdeen Mela Lead
& Aberdeen Multicultural Centre Manager
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Expressing Scotland CIC for their invaluable support in the development and execution of the Aberdeen Mela. Their technical expertise in programming was instrumental in shaping our event, ensuring a seamless and high-quality experience for all attendees. Furthermore, their professional guidance and support with the funding application process was crucial in helping us secure the necessary resources to bring this vibrant celebration of culture to life. We truly appreciate their dedication and commitment to fostering cultural diversity in Scotland and look forward to future collaborations.
Coralie Usmani
CEO
Jazz Scotland
The process of consultation was particularly enlightening. Simon [Director] is really adept at asking the right questions, drilling down to get to the core and heart of what we do. This rich consultation provides the foundation for putting pen to paper. Simon writes in a clear and succinct way guided by his considerable experience.
Emyr Bell
Creative Director & CEO
North East Arts Touring, Aberdeenshire
Expressing Scotland has been instrumental in shaping NEAT's new 10-year Creative Strategy due to their exceptional knowledge of the Scottish arts and culture landscape. As a musician, Simon [Director] understands the challenges and rewards of touring and has expertise in community engagement and strategy. This has helped NEAT develop a plan to create a more cohesive and impactful service for rural communities and artists. Simon's contribution has inspired our staff and board to approach the delivery of our work in a way that will have significant cultural and social outcomes by embracing the Theory of Change