Where It All Began - What Is It?
‘Where it all Began’ aims to ignite a nationwide movement, one that champions creative discovery and cultural enrichment, proving that the true value of an event lies not in profit, but in the lasting impact it leaves on people, communities and future generations.
A return to the heart of it all; a place where the creative spirit and the
core values of festival culture are upheld. High quality production is standard, musical diversity the foundation, and where audiences feel valued, respected and a deep sense of connection.
ETHOS
‘Where it all Began’ aims to ignite a nationwide movement, one that champions creative discovery and cultural enrichment, proving that the true value of an event lies not in profit, but in the lasting impact it leaves on people, communities and future generations.
A return to the heart of it all; a place where the creative spirit and the
core values of festival culture are upheld. High quality production is standard, musical diversity the foundation, and where audiences feel valued, respected and a deep sense of connection.
PRINCIPLES
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‘Where It All Began’ emerges to pioneer a new, community-owned model, that delivers:
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A not-for-profit initiative with no shareholders — every penny goes straight back into seeding and sustaining the grassroots community.
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Fair pay and opportunity for grassroots artists, by providing quality performance platforms, removing inflated high-profile artist fees and upholding MU (Musicians’ Union) pay standards.
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Shared benefits model for all participating partners. Allowing struggling venues, festivals and promoters to generate income without stress and financial risk.
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Collaborative approach to programming, resulting in a line-up of the finest independent and emerging artists from across the nation and beyond.
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A higher artistic budget for grassroots programmers. Utilising the VAT cultural exemption to boost artist budgets, funding richer creative content and higher production values.
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Affordable pricing for audiences, driven by savings generated through collaboration, resource sharing and supportive partnerships with industry suppliers.
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Pathways to Industry initiatives, including the creation of a youth led venue, in partnership with Leeds Conservatoire, BIMM Music Institute, Festival Lab and Diplomats of Sound CIC.
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Inspiring and supporting the next generation of creatives, through incentive based and meaningful opportunities to engage with live music and the grassroots industry.
PURPOSE
The intended result, a vibrant, refreshing and rewarding environment with something for every taste, where everyone is welcome and a good time is guaranteed.
SCALABILITY
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‘Where it All Began’ has initially been funded through a scalable, crowdfunded model; expanding its capacity, partnerships, and programme in direct proportion to the funds raised.
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The ‘Where It All Began’ Crowdfunder started on November 7th, 2025; with the aim of mobilising a community; inviting supporters to join the movement and become ‘Original Founders’, shaping a new era for grassroots culture. It has gone on to raise more than £100,000, in early ticket sales, deposits, and donations.
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Every partner gets their own referral link. The more tickets sold, the bigger the budget; and the bigger the event! We build ‘Where It All Began’ to scale sustainably, keeping everything transparent and giving both fans and organisers full control of the experience.