PRIMADONNA FESTIVAL AND PRIZE CIO
Primadonna festival celebrates womxn writers and disabled, working-class, Black and Asian and LGBTQIA artists whose voices we seek to amplify. We programme a diverse and inclusive line-up distinct from any other book festival, creating a unique atmosphere of community, cooperation and contribution. In addition, we run a literary prize whose aim is to open up new channels into publishing.
Financial health, per its FY2024 accounts
The accounts state that the charity reported a surplus of £6,812 for the 18-month period ended 31 October 2024, with total income of £190,323 against expenditure of £183,511. Per the trustees' report, the charity held unrestricted reserves of £6,812, which falls below the stated policy target of three months of operating expenditure. The trustees have adopted the going concern basis despite deciding not to hold the festival in 2025 due to financial viability concerns.
What the accounts disclose
“Income for the period was comprised of donations, grants, ticket sales and general festival activities.” — page 5
“At 31 October 2024, the charity held free reserves of £6,812. This falls below the target reserves policy which is expected during the first period of operation.” — page 6
“Included within other creditors are amounts owed, totalling £1,055, to Primadonna Festival CIC for costs paid on behalf of the charity in the early stages of set up. This amount will be offset against the donation made from Primadonna Festival CIC to the charity as part of the CIC's close down and transfer of its remaining assets. The trustees of the charity also served as directors of Primadonna Festival CIC.” — page 17
Trustees
- Tracey Paula Bleakleychair
- CRAIG DUNCAN
- Ellisha Tararine Soanes
- Joanna Baker
- Winnie Li
Income and spending
| Financial year end | Income | Spending |
|---|---|---|
| 31/10/2025 | £54k | £32k |
| 31/10/2024 | £191k | £184k |
Common questions
Is PRIMADONNA FESTIVAL AND PRIZE CIO financially healthy?
Per its FY2024 accounts: The accounts state that the charity reported a surplus of £6,812 for the 18-month period ended 31 October 2024, with total income of £190,323 against expenditure of £183,511. Per the trustees' report, the charity held unrestricted reserves of £6,812, which falls below the stated policy target of three months of operating expenditure. The trustees have adopted the going concern basis despite deciding not to hold the festival in 2025 due to financial viability concerns. Its FY2024 accounts were independently examined.
Who funds PRIMADONNA FESTIVAL AND PRIZE CIO?
Funders whose own accounts filings name PRIMADONNA FESTIVAL AND PRIZE CIO as a grant recipient include THE SHM FOUNDATION.
Known funders
| Funder | Year | Amount | Purpose (as stated by the funder) |
|---|---|---|---|
| THE SHM FOUNDATION | FY2024 | £5k | Arts |
Government & lottery funding
| Funder | Date | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postcode Lottery | 01/11/2023 | £8k | Project Funding |