In 2015, the Emerging Artists Fund launched by Help Musicians UK and PledgeMusic UK helped to provide a springboard for emerging artists such as Telegram, Zola Blood and The Lottery Winners. They’re now launching their 2016 fund, which aims to help DIY bands build a long-term career.
The fund is open to all musicians and bands in any genre, and prioritises emerging acts who aren’t currently receiving significant financial backing from a third party (for instance, a label or publisher). It will allow selected artists to run their own PledgeMusic campaign and receive a top up grant once they reach their target. While the fund runs from November 2016 until November 2017, there will be three submission rounds running from November-January, March-May and July-September. In addition to the funding, the selected acts can take part in three showcases throughout the year, which will profile the artists selected in each round, as well as a mentoring scheme, where industry experts will use their knowledge to help further the bands’ careers.
Claire Gaveaux of Help Musicians UK says: “2015 was an incredible success for the diverse range of artists supported through our first Emerging Artists Fund. Working alongside PledgeMusic, we’re committing more funding in 2016 to help more musicians realise their ambitions, provide more showcase opportunities across the UK and access to experts in the sector.”
Meanwhile, PledgeMusic UK MD Paul Barton added: “Following a very successful year 1 of the PledgeMusic/Help Musicians UK partnership, we are delighted to be joining forces together. Many of the artists from last year’s programme made significant achievements and progress in their careers – from Elf Kid’s support at Radio 1 and Beats 1, to the signing of The Lottery Winners by Seymour Stein’s Sire Records. I look forward to working with Help Musicians UK and helping many more acts through the Emerging Artists Fund.”
For more information and apply to the fund, visit the Emerging Artists Fund website.
