Hootenannies

The Capital’s newest comedy club Hootenannies, created by Monkey Barrel Comedy founder John Millar and Co-Producer of the Scottish Comedy Festival Rick Molland, will welcome both artists and audiences to its newly refurbished venue to provide an authentic comedy experience.

The highly experienced duo have also teamed up with The Apex to create a new comedy hub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket for The Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2023 consisting of six rooms that will host over 50 artists throughout the festival period.

Seeking funding to raise working capital and back their joint venture, the Directors of Hootenannies John Millar and Rick Molland turned to Business Loans Scotland (BLS) and after submitting their application online, received a £40,000 loan.

Led by a consortium of Scotland's local authorities, BLS can offer loans from £25,000 up to £250,000 to new and established businesses throughout Scotland. By giving businesses access to an invaluable new source of funding, these loans may be used flexibly for several purposes, including but not limited to, working capital, the purchase of plant or equipment, investing in business property and expanding into new markets.

Fully funded by the Scottish Government, BLS aims to give businesses access to funding that will support their growth and expansion plans. Whilst securing finance can be a major hurdle, particularly for small and medium sized businesses, this Fund will give businesses the opportunity to secure the finance required to realise their ambitions.

Speaking of the loan issued, Director of Hootenannies, John Millar said:

“Here at Hootenannies, we're beyond excited at bringing Edinburgh a new comedy and cabaret club. The loan from BLS is helping us with the start-up costs; from building works and bar equipment all the way to mics and spotlights. As well as competitive rates, BLS lends on forecasts and holds your hand through the process to give you the best shot possible at a successful application. We would encourage any business to speak to BLS before deciding which lender is best for them. We think, like us, you will love working with BLS.”

Fund Manager for Business Loans Scotland, Andrew Dickson added:

“I am delighted that the loan from Business Loans Scotland has been able to play a small part in opening the doors to Edinburgh’s latest comedy club, Hootenannies. This is a very exciting time for the business, especially with The Edinburgh Fringe Festival fast approaching and I look forward to seeing Hootenannies flourish and welcome many acts and visitors to the premises over the upcoming months.”