Max SteventonUK grassroots festival Where It All Began has raised £180,000 through a crowdfunding campaign without corporate sponsorship or paid advertising.
Where It All Began, which is led by Chai Wallahs and Diplomats of Sound creative director Si Chai, closed its crowdfunder in January 2026, exceeding its initial target.
The festival, launched by a collective of independent organisers and promoters, launched the fundraiser in November 2025. Where It All Began is scheduled for 18-21 June and will be held at a site in Cambridgeshire previously used by the Secret Garden Party.
The fundraising effort took place against a backdrop of cancellations and reduced programming across the UK’s independent festival sector.
Following the campaign, organisers have begun releasing details of the festival programme. A first group of artists has been announced, with additional names expected in the coming weeks. The event is expected to focus on independent and emerging performers rather than established headline acts.
Organisers said the festival will include music alongside other activities such as street art, skate culture, comedy, education and community-led initiatives. Plans also include food from independent traders, family-oriented programming and a designated wellness area.
“This has been about graft, not budgets,” said Chai. “No sponsors. No corporate backing. No ad spend. Just belief in an idea, and a community willing to stand behind it.”
Where It All Began co-founder Luke Potter said, “We’re building something that reflects what’s actually happening in culture right now, not just what sells quickest. This is about independent music, creativity and culture, and making sure those values aren’t lost but passed on.”