Every Fringe Starts with an Idea
Every Fringe festival begins with a vision.
It might be a desire to create more opportunities for artists, celebrate the unique identity of a place, bring communities together through creativity or establish a new cultural destination. Whatever the ambition, every Fringe has its own story. There is no single blueprint for building a successful Fringe. Some festivals grow into internationally recognised events welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors, while others remain small, community-led celebrations that make a lasting impact in their local communities.
Every Fringe develops in response to its own artists, audiences and place. That diversity is one of the movement’s greatest strengths. Whether you’re exploring the idea of a new Fringe or developing an existing festival, you’re not starting alone.
Start with the World Fringe Launchpad
The World Fringe Launchpad is the starting point for anyone creating, developing or strengthening a Fringe festival.
Developed by World Fringe in collaboration with festivals from across the international Fringe movement, the Launchpad brings together practical guidance, case studies, tools and shared learning in one place. It has been designed to help organisers at every stage of their journey—from first ideas to long-term sustainability.
Whether you’re planning your first Fringe or looking to develop an established festival, the Launchpad provides practical advice, inspiration and connections to help you move forward with confidence.
The Launchpad includes guidance on:
- Developing your vision and purpose.
- Understanding different Fringe models.
- Governance and organisational development.
- Artist engagement and programming.
- Partnerships and stakeholder relationships.
- Marketing and audience development.
- Financial planning and sustainability.
- Insurance and risk management.
- Accessibility and inclusion.
- Learning from Fringe festivals around the world.
Explore the World Fringe Launchpad →
Essential Resources
Developing a Fringe means making informed decisions and accessing trusted expertise.
Insurance is never the first thing you think about when producing a festival or a show – however as a festival you need to have this in place and EVERY SHOW needs it, boring as it might be, without it you really do put yourself and others at massive risk the minute you set foot in a venue, or indeed start rehearsing in other spaces or locations.
Our Trusted partner for insurance is Tysers Live, Wproviding specialist insurance solutions for festivals and live events.
Tysers Live also developed Encore Insure in partnership with World Fringe and by individuals who have over 30 years’ experience, expertise and a fundamental understanding of an industry which presents its own unique set of exposures and insurance issues. This is a dedicated insurance product designed specifically for artists performing at Fringe festivals. This helps artists access appropriate cover while giving festivals greater confidence that participants have insurance designed for the realities of Fringe performance.
Alongside practical guidance, the Launchpad connects organisers with specialist resources and partners that understand the unique needs of Fringe festivals.
As the Launchpad grows, it will continue to bring together trusted resources, partners and practical tools to support both festivals and artists.
Learn from a Global Community
One of the greatest strengths of the Fringe movement is its willingness to share knowledge and experience.
Through World Fringe, organisers connect across borders to exchange ideas, solve common challenges and celebrate successes. Every festival—whether established or emerging—has something valuable to contribute.
The World Fringe Congress, international partnerships, peer learning and the Launchpad all exist for the same reason: to strengthen Fringe festivals by connecting the people who make them happen.
When you become part of the World Fringe community, you’re joining an international network built on collaboration, generosity and a shared belief in the power of creativity.
How World Fringe Can Help
While the Launchpad provides practical resources and guidance, sometimes there’s no substitute for a conversation.
World Fringe works directly with festivals, cultural organisations and partners to support the development of new and existing Fringe festivals around the world.
We can help you:
- Connect with experienced Fringe organisers.
- Develop international partnerships.
- Share examples of good practice and innovation.
- Explore governance and organisational development.
- Access mentoring, consultancy and strategic advice.
- Become part of the international World Fringe network.
Every Fringe is different, so our support is always shaped around your ambitions, your community and your context.
Let’s Build the Future of Fringe Together
The next great Fringe festival could begin with a single conversation.
Whether you’re developing a new idea, strengthening an existing festival or looking to connect with the international Fringe community, we’d love to hear from you.
Start by exploring the World Fringe Launchpad, then get in touch to discuss how World Fringe can support your journey.