FIRST FOOT is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting Scottish-based individuals working in the Arts expand their horizons and build their profile in the US.
Each year FIRST FOOT invites artists, musicians and creatives based in Scotland to apply for curated one-to-one professional mentorship, legal advice, industry networking and financial assistance: providing an unprecedented “landing pad” for those ready to make the leap across the Atlantic.
First Foot was founded by award-winning writer and theatremaker, Scott Gilmour, and U.S. Immigration Attorney, Fraser Grier. The idea was born from their own life experience of relocating to New York City to further grow their careers.
Both originally from Glasgow, Scott and Fraser didn’t actually meet until they landed in NYC. They found quickly they shared a unique perspective on the challenges opportunities that are associated with moving to the US, but that there was a lack in accessible support, professional guidance, and financial assistance for those wishing to make the same journey.
By combining their knowledge in their respective fields, the pair were able to identify the barriers for Scottish-based artists looking to engage with the US market, and create an all-in-one resource hub designed to assist in overcoming them: First Foot.
The organisation aims to take the already strong cultural ties between Scotland and the US, and offers a new bridge for artists to continue building on them for the future.
First Foot is proud to be backed by the Scottish Government’s Scottish Connections Fund 2025.
FIRST FOOT
"The first person to cross the threshold and begin the New Year”
Scottish custom that sees a household blessed with luck for the year by the first person to enter their home: their “first foot”.
MEET THE TEAM
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Fraser Grier
CO-FOUNDER
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Scott Gilmour
CO-FOUNDER
